If you are craving the comforting flavors of a classic cheesesteak combined with the satisfying heartiness of a potato casserole, then this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish. It’s a delightful marriage of savory ground beef or steak, tender diced potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. The creamy mushroom soup and a blend of spices add lush depth, making every bite a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is simple, flavorful, and incredibly forgiving for busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, focusing on familiar ingredients that come together to create a comforting and hearty casserole. Each one plays a crucial role in adding flavor, texture, or richness to the final dish.
- 1 lb ground beef or shaved steak: The protein foundation that brings classic cheesesteak flavor into the mix.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when sautéed.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Brings a pop of color and a mild, fresh bite to balance the richness.
- 4 cups diced potatoes: The hearty base that soaks up all the delicious flavors; peel if you prefer a smoother texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, providing creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds a savory creaminess that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the soup to create the perfect sauce consistency.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle earthy warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor, making it rich and aromatic.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds brightness and a fresh aroma when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your ground beef or shaved steak until it’s no longer pink. This step is key to developing a rich, caramelized flavor that forms the backbone of this recipe. Once browned, be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in your diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold a bit of their fresh texture. This quick sauté step awakens their natural sweetness and adds a welcome crunch and color to the casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will become the luscious sauce that envelops the potatoes and meat, giving the casserole its beloved creamy consistency and rich flavor.
Step 4: Layer the First Half
Now comes the fun part. In your crockpot, create the base layers by adding half of the diced potatoes first, followed by half of the savory beef and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, then pour half of the sauce over everything. This layering ensures every bite will be a perfect balance of flavors.
Step 5: Layer the Remaining Ingredients
Repeat the layering process with the remaining diced potatoes, beef mixture, shredded cheese, and soup mixture. Layering twice not only distributes ingredients evenly but also guarantees the casserole cooks thoroughly, with cheesy, meaty goodness in every bite.
Step 6: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. During this time, the potatoes will soften to tender perfection, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. This slow cooking method means you can let it work its magic while you go about your day, returning to a ready-to-eat meal bursting with homestyle warmth.
Step 7: Garnish Before Serving
Once the casserole is cooked through and bubbly, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This final flourish adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens the rich, savory casserole before you dig in.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet effective garnish for this casserole. You might also consider a dash of smoked paprika or sliced green onions to add extra visual appeal and a hint of contrasting flavor. These little touches make the presentation inviting and the taste experience even better.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also fantastic for mopping up any leftover cheesy sauce on your plate. For some added veggies, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus can round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or add a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for portion control and an elegant touch. You can also top each serving with a fried egg or some pickled jalapeños to bring in new layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for satisfying quick lunches or dinners later in the week without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. To preserve its best texture and taste, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to label it for easy identification when you want to enjoy it down the road.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat your saved casserole, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions reheat nicely in the microwave for a quicker option, though the oven method helps maintain that golden cheesy top layer.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese gives a classic sharpness, feel free to experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. Each cheese will add its own unique twist to the flavor profile.
Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, shaved steak is an excellent alternative for a more authentic cheesesteak experience. You could also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, though the cooking time may need slight adjustment depending on the meat used.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is optional and depends on your texture preference. Leaving the skins on adds rustic charm and extra nutrients, but peeling them provides a smoother, creamier casserole texture.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a crockpot?
Sure! Use a casserole dish, layering the ingredients as directed, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the potatoes are tender. Keep an eye to prevent overcooking and add extra cheese on top at the end for a bubbly crust.
How spicy is this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly as written, with no added spice heat. You can easily customize it by adding chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños if you love a bit of a kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a dish that combines the nostalgic flavors of a cheesesteak with the hearty goodness of a slow-cooked potato casserole. This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe is wonderfully easy to put together and delivers big on flavor every single time. Give it a try on a busy weeknight or for a weekend family meal—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef or shaved steak, sautéed onions and bell peppers, all smothered in a creamy mushroom soup mixture and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal prep and easy slow cooker convenience.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or shaved steak
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (peeled if desired)
Dairy and Soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or shaved steak until no longer pink. Drain excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their flavors.
- Mix the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy sauce.
- Layer the casserole – first layer: In the crockpot, layer half of the diced potatoes, followed by half of the cooked beef and vegetables mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour half of the soup mixture evenly over this layer.
- Layer the casserole – second layer: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, cheddar cheese, and soup mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with shaved steak for a more traditional cheesesteak flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- If you prefer your vegetables softer, sauté them a bit longer or cook the casserole for an additional 30 minutes.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and reheats well in the microwave or oven.
