Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Introduction

There’s something special about a casserole, and when it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s even better. One of my family’s favorite meals is this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole, and for good reason! The combination of tender steak, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese makes for a rich, comforting dish that is perfect for any night of the week. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and with minimal prep, it allows you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the hard work. The savory aroma fills the kitchen as it cooks, creating anticipation for the delicious meal ahead. Whenever I make this casserole, my family can’t help but rave about how flavorful and satisfying it is. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day!

Ingredients

To prepare this hearty and cheesy casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a satisfying and flavorful meal, with tender steak, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese.

Instructions

Making Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is simple, and the slow cooking process makes the flavors meld together beautifully. Follow these steps:

1. Prep the Steak:
   Season the steak pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, sear the steak on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once seared, set the steak aside.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker:
   Add the frozen diced hash brown potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the seared steak to your slow cooker. The frozen hash browns provide a quick and easy base for this dish, making it a time-saver.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed. Pour the sauce over the steak and potatoes in the slow cooker, and gently stir everything together to ensure the sauce coats all the ingredients.
4. Slow Cook:
   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the steak should be cooked through and fully infused with the flavors.
5. Add Extra Cheese:
   About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and let the cheese melt into a gooey, cheesy layer.
6. Serve:
   Once the cheese is melted, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting casserole!

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 450 kcal (approx.)
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Cholesterol: 95mg

This dish is a rich and hearty option, packing in both protein and flavor with a good balance of fats. While it’s not a light dish, it’s certainly satisfying and full of comfort food goodness. You can adjust the recipe by using leaner cuts of steak if you want to reduce the fat content.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) / 4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) / 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
• Yield: 6 servings

This casserole is quick to prep and does most of the cooking on its own, thanks to the slow cooker. It’s the perfect meal for a busy day when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Here are some great ways to serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole:

• As a Main Dish:
  This casserole is hearty enough to serve as the main meal. Pair it with a light side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
• With Garlic Bread:
  Serve this casserole alongside warm, toasted garlic bread for a satisfying and filling meal.
• With a Side Salad:
  A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs wonderfully with the richness of this casserole.
• For Meal Prep:
  This casserole makes excellent leftovers, so you can portion it out for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.

Additional Tips

1. Use Leaner Cuts of Steak:
   If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the regular steak for a lean cut like sirloin. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as lean cuts tend to cook faster.
2. Add More Veggies:
   For added nutrition and flavor, try incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the casserole.
3. Make it Spicy:
   If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture before slow cooking.
4. Use Fresh Potatoes:
   While frozen hash browns are convenient, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply dice them into small pieces and sauté them in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This will add extra texture to the casserole.
5. Top with Extra Cheese:
   For extra cheesiness, feel free to add more shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. You can even add a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version:
  For a vegetarian twist, replace the steak with mushrooms or a plant-based protein. This will create a delicious, meatless casserole that’s just as satisfying.
• Use Other Cheeses:
  While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gouda, Swiss, or a sharp blue cheese would all work well and add unique flavors to the dish.
• Spicy Teriyaki Casserole:
  For a twist on the classic recipe, add a few tablespoons of teriyaki sauce and some chili flakes to the beef for a sweet and spicy variation.
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Cheddar Casserole:
  Swap the steak for chicken breast or thighs for a lighter version of the dish. Chicken works well with the creamy potatoes and savory cheese, creating a comforting dish for all to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Roasted Vegetables:
  Serve the casserole with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli to complement the creamy richness of the dish.
• Serve with a Side of Rice:
  A simple side of rice, like jasmine or basmati, would be perfect to soak up the savory sauce from the casserole.
• Accompany with a Fresh Green Salad:
  A simple side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Casserole:
  This casserole freezes well. After it’s cooked and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Storing Leftovers:
  Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered baking dish in the oven for the best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and cook it in the slow cooker the next day.
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
   Yes, just dice the fresh potatoes and sauté them before adding them to the slow cooker for better texture.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I substitute the beef with chicken?
   Yes, you can use diced chicken in place of the steak. It will cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
   Add some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Swiss will work just as well in this casserole.
7. Can I cook this casserole on high in the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours. Just ensure the potatoes are tender before serving.

8.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the steak is cooked through. You can check by piercing a potato with a fork.

9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve a larger group. Just be sure your slow cooker is big enough to hold the extra portions.
10. How can I make this casserole more flavorful?
    Add a little more seasoning to taste, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty steak, creamy potatoes, and rich cheddar cheese into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With minimal prep and a slow cooker that does the work for you, this casserole is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal with maximum flavor. Whether served as a family dinner or a special occasion dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

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