Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is your ticket to a stress-free, flavor-packed meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you just want a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal prep. The tender chunks of seasoned steak, creamy potatoes, and gooey melted cheddar cheese all come together in your slow cooker to create a family favorite that never disappoints.

This casserole is not just about convenience; it’s about layers of flavor and texture. The beef soaks up the savory seasonings as it slowly cooks, while the potatoes become tender and infused with meaty goodness. Topped with sharp cheddar that melts into every crevice, this dish is an irresistible combo that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
What Kind of Steak Should I Use?
Choose a cut that’s well-suited for slow cooking such as chuck steak, stew meat, or round steak. These cuts become beautifully tender and juicy after hours in the slow cooker, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings.
Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
- Chuck steak or stew meat – the heart of the casserole, offering rich, meaty flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.
- Potatoes – use starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture.
- Cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar provides bold flavor and gooey, comforting richness.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the overall dish.
- Beef broth – keeps the meat juicy and infuses everything with savory flavor.
- Garlic – essential for that subtle aromatic base.
- Salt and pepper – to season and enhance all the ingredients.
- Paprika and thyme – optional herbs to add a slight smokiness and earthy note.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even chunks. Dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, trimming off any excess fat.
Step 2: Build the Base Layer
In your slow cooker, layer the chopped potatoes and diced onions evenly. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This will form the flavor-packed foundation of your casserole.
Step 3: Add the Steak and Broth
Place the steak pieces over the potato layer. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the ingredients are mostly covered. This will help cook everything evenly and infuse the dish with meaty richness.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The steak should be tender and the potatoes soft when it’s ready.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with a bit of chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Serve hot, scooping out hearty portions of steak, potato, and melted cheddar goodness.
Serving and Storing Your Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
This casserole is best enjoyed hot right out of the slow cooker, where the cheese is melty and the flavors are fresh. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add a bit of freshness to the richness of the dish.
To store leftovers, transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it up in the microwave or oven until thoroughly heated. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheddar on top before reheating to bring back that cheesy appeal.
For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for easy reheating on busy days. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm through before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a bold flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for a twist.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Carrots, peas, or green beans are great additions. Add them during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, though beef broth enhances the meatiness best.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Definitely. Chop all your ingredients and layer them in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just place it into the cooker base and start cooking.
Is it okay to use frozen steak?
It’s better to use thawed steak to ensure even cooking and better texture. If you must use frozen, increase the cooking time slightly and check for doneness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when seasoning the base layer to give it a kick.

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 22 minute
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Description
A cozy and hearty casserole made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Featuring tender chunks of steak, soft potatoes, and rich cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect comforting meal for any evening.
Ingredients
Chuck steak or stew meat
Potatoes (Russets or Yukon Golds)
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Onion, diced
Beef broth
Garlic, minced
Salt
Pepper
Paprika (optional)
Thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Dice onion and mince garlic. Cut steak into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer potatoes and onion in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Place steak on top. Pour beef broth over to mostly cover the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheddar cheese over top. Replace lid until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with parsley or black pepper. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Dinner