If you’ve been hunting for a hearty, comforting meal that blends the sizzling flavors of a classic cheesesteak with the cozy satisfaction of potatoes, you’re in for a real treat with this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and melty cheeses mingling with tender potatoes all slow-cooked to perfection in one pot. This dish delivers that iconic cheesesteak taste in a totally new, soul-warming way that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want dinner ready without hovering over the stove.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe is how every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. From the rich ground beef to the creamy cheeses and vibrant veggies, these simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein base that mimics that iconic cheesesteak essence with juicy, rich flavor.
- Bell peppers: Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch, bringing color and freshness to the casserole.
- Onion: Provides aromatic depth and balances the savory flavors beautifully when sautéed.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with a warm, savory kick that’s essential in any cheesesteak flavor profile.
- Steak seasoning: A blend of spices that amplifies the taste, making every bite as satisfying as the classic sandwich.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity with its tangy, umami punch that elevates the savory notes.
- Diced potatoes: The comforting, hearty component that soaks up all the delicious flavors during slow cooking.
- Cheddar cheese soup: Creates a creamy, cheesy base that ensures every bite feels indulgent and rich.
- Provolone cheese: Shredded on top for a melty, gooey finish that hints at the traditional cheesesteak cheese experience.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and creaminess to balance the richness and bind everything together.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This step is crucial because it develops that deeply savory base flavor for the entire dish. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, add in sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Season everything with steak seasoning and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to punch up the flavor. Sauté the mixture until the veggies are tender and everything is beautifully fragrant.
Step 3: Partially Cook the Potatoes
While your veggies are softening, partially cook your diced potatoes by boiling them briefly or microwaving until just tender but not falling apart. This important step ensures the potatoes will finish cooking perfectly in the crockpot without turning mushy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the browned beef and sautéed vegetables into your crockpot. Add the partially cooked potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, shredded provolone cheese, and sour cream. Stir everything thoroughly so that the flavors can meld together evenly as it cooks.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook on high for about 2 hours or low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and all the cheeses are melted, bubbling, and irresistibly creamy.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up presentation and layering of flavors, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving. A little extra shredded provolone or even thinly sliced jalapeños can add some color and zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can also make for a comforting side to mop up every cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a fun twist, or heap it over baked potatoes or even toasted bread for an open-faced twist. It’s versatile and perfect for sharing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they sit, making great next-day comfort food.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well! Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To bring back that melty cheese goodness, popping it under the broiler for a couple of minutes can revive the bubbly and golden top perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cheese instead of cheese soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cheddar cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce made from cheddar, milk, and a little flour, for a fresher taste, although the soup adds convenient creaminess.
Is it possible to use frozen diced potatoes?
Yes, but be cautious to adjust cooking time since frozen potatoes may release more water. You might want to reduce any added liquids slightly to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I swap ground beef for another protein?
Sure! Ground turkey or chicken works fine for a lighter version, and even thinly sliced steak can add an authentic cheesesteak feel, though it may require a different cooking method before adding to the crockpot.
What can I do if I don’t have a crockpot?
You can bake this casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 45-60 minutes until the potatoes are tender and cheese is melted, stirring midway to ensure even cooking.
How spicy is the casserole?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly as is, but you can always add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sautéed vegetables if you prefer a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer for those nights when you crave cheesesteak but want something cozy and easy to throw together. If you want a dish that’s comfort food at its finest without complicated steps, give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you for it!
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Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (high) or 4-5 hours (low)
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (high) or up to 5 hours 20 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining the flavors of classic cheesesteak with tender potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection. Ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and garlic meld with creamy cheddar cheese soup, provolone cheese, and sour cream, creating a cheesy, savory casserole that’s perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp steak seasoning
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups diced potatoes (partially cooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Season with steak seasoning and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Partially cook the potatoes: Prepare the diced potatoes by boiling them in water or microwaving until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked to retain shape during crockpot cooking.
- Combine in the crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables into the crockpot. Then add the partially cooked diced potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, shredded provolone cheese, and sour cream.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together in the crockpot until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
- Cook until done: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4-5 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese mixture is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the hot casserole onto plates and serve immediately for a delicious, cheesy comfort meal.
Notes
- Partially cooking the potatoes prevents them from becoming too mushy in the slow cooker.
- Use fresh or frozen diced potatoes according to your convenience.
- Feel free to substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
- Steak seasoning can be adjusted according to taste preference for spiciness or saltiness.
- Adding a pinch of black pepper or fresh herbs like parsley before serving can enhance flavor.
