This cozy casserole brings together tender steak, creamy cheddar, and hearty potatoes all in one dish! The slow cooker works its magic, making everything super flavorful and easy to prepare.
I love how this dish is a one-pot meal! Just toss the ingredients in, and a few hours later, you have a warm, cheesy treat. Perfect for a laid-back dinner with the family! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: It’s best to use chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey or chicken breast. Both work well when cut into cubes and seasoned.
Russet Potatoes: These are great for their fluffy texture, but you could swap them with Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier result. Sweet potatoes can work for a healthier twist, giving a nice sweetness to the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but if you’re looking for alternatives, try Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a Tex-Mex blend for added zest.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute here. It adds creaminess while being a bit healthier. Plus, it’s great for those who want a tangy flavor!
How Do I Achieve Tender Beef in My Casserole?
The key to tender beef is in the cooking time. Slow cooking breaks down the tough fibers, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the meat first in a skillet with olive oil for added flavor. Make sure the meat gets nice and brown.
- Layer the ingredients carefully in the slow cooker, as specified, to allow even cooking.
- Set your slow cooker low and slow for optimal tenderness—6-8 hours will do the trick. If you’re in a hurry, 3-4 hours on high will still yield good results.
Remember, don’t lift the lid too often while cooking; each peek lets heat escape, which can extend cooking time. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker on low heat, or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef stew meat. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This adds a nice flavor to your dish, so don’t skip this step! Once browned, remove the meat from the heat and set it aside.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Grab your slow cooker and layer the bottom with the diced potatoes, followed by the diced onions, and then sprinkle the minced garlic on top. After you’ve got a nice layer going, add the browned steak on top of the veggies.
3. Add Flavors:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the meat and vegetables. These spices will elevate the flavors of your casserole.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour the beef broth over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. This will help everything cook down beautifully and keep your casserole nice and moist.
5. Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are soft.
6. Mix in Cheddar and Sour Cream:
Once the cooking time is up, take off the lid and stir in the sour cream along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well so the flavors combine nicely!
7. Top with Cheese:
Now sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Put the lid back on and let it sit for another 10-15 minutes to let the cheese melt into a delicious gooey layer on top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before digging in, garnish your casserole with some chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve it warm and enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is recommended for its tenderness, you can substitute it with other meats like cubed chicken thighs or pork. Just note that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so adjust accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. This will slightly change the flavor profile but will still keep the dish delicious. You could also make a homemade broth or use water with a beef bouillon cube for a quick fix.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the casserole is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up while reheating!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, replace the beef with cubed firm tofu or a meat substitute. You can also add in some extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to complete the dish.
