This hearty casserole combines tender steak, gooey cheddar cheese, and creamy potatoes all cooked together in a slow cooker. It’s like having a cozy hug in a dish!
I love how all the flavors blend beautifully while I relax, knowing it’s cooking itself. It’s perfect for a busy day or a cozy family dinner. Just serve with a salad, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Chuck and sirloin are both great choices for this casserole. Chuck is more flavorful but requires longer cooking to become tender. If you’re on a budget, consider using ground beef as a substitute for a quicker-cooking option.
Potatoes: I prefer using Russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but Yukon Golds work well too. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could swap them out for cauliflower florets. Just keep an eye on cooking times as cauliflower cooks faster.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for a milder flavor. You can also skip the onion entirely and still have a tasty casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you want a twist, try a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for some heat. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can substitute it with homemade cream of mushroom soup to avoid preservatives. Alternatively, cream of chicken or a vegetarian soup works well too, depending on your preference.
How Can I Ensure My Steak is Tender in the Casserole?
Getting the steak tender is key to a great casserole. The slow cooking method helps, but here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Cut your steak into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip the browning step! If time allows, quickly sear the steak pieces in a hot pan before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds flavor and texture.
- It’s essential to use enough liquid to keep the dish moist. Stick to the recommended beef broth, but feel free to adjust based on your tastes or how the dish looks during cooking.
- Let it cook low and slow. If you can, stick with the low setting for the full cooking time. It allows the tough fibers in the meat to break down beautifully.
Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 lbs steak (chuck or sirloin), cubed
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6-7 hours to cook on low, or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal that lets you enjoy the aroma while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced steak, diced potatoes, and diced onion. It’s a colorful collection of ingredients! Then, add in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well-blended and the steak and veggies are coated.
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
Transfer your delicious mixture into the slow cooker. Spread it out so it’s even and ready to cook. This will help everything cook nicely together!
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The steak should be tender, and the potatoes will be cooked through and soft.
4. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, it’s time for cheese! Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of your casserole in the slow cooker. Cover it again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It will add a delicious, creamy topping!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done cooking, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives if you’d like. Serve it warm and enjoy your hearty steak and cheddar potato casserole. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the steak with ground beef or shredded chicken. Just adjust the cooking time: for ground beef, cook on low for 4-5 hours, and for shredded chicken, cook on low for 5-6 hours until it’s cooked through and tender.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce made from sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with some broth and spices. This will still yield a deliciously creamy casserole!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist while heating.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! You can create a vegetarian version by replacing the steak with a variety of mushrooms or hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream soup instead of the cream of mushroom soup for a fully vegetarian dish!
