Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole merges the hearty flavors of a classic Philadelphia cheesesteak with the comforting warmth of a baked potato casserole, all made easy in a crockpot. This dish layers thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions and peppers, slices of potatoes, and a generous amount of cheese, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and convenient for any day of the week.
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Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole combines the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a potato casserole, all made easy in a slow cooker. This dish layers tender slices of beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and sliced potatoes under a blanket of melted cheese, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained
3 bell peppers, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 large scoop of minced garlic
Steak seasoning, to taste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
4 cups diced potatoes
1 can cheddar cheese soup
1 1/2 – 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
Cook and Season the Beef: Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, then drain any excess fat. Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Season well with steak seasoning and Worcestershire sauce. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
Prepare the Potatoes: If using fresh diced potatoes, you’ll need to cook them partially before adding them to the crockpot. You can either boil them for a few minutes until slightly tender or microwave them until partially cooked. This will help ensure they cook evenly in the crockpot.
Prepare the Crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables to the crockpot.
Add Remaining Ingredients: To the crockpot, add the partially cooked diced potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, shredded provolone cheese, and sour cream.
Combine Ingredients: Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
Cook: 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 is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your delicious Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole! 
Notes
- For a crispier top layer, broil the casserole in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes before serving.
- Customize the casserole with your choice of cheese or additional vegetables like mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
FAQs About Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious and nutritious substitute for white potatoes in the casserole, adding a slight sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the beef and cheese.
How can I prevent my potatoes from turning mushy? To prevent mushiness, slice the potatoes thickly and layer them at the bottom of the crockpot where they receive less direct heat. Choosing firmer potato varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds can also help maintain their texture during the long cooking process.
Is it necessary to brown the meat and sauté the vegetables before adding them to the crockpot? While not strictly necessary, browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables beforehand can significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole. These steps add depth and richness to the dish that you won’t get from simply layering raw ingredients in the crockpot.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, to make a vegetarian version, replace the beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables such as mushrooms, eggplant, or beans. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the casserole remains flavorful.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or warm them in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To start, you’ll need thinly sliced ribeye steak or another tender cut of beef, which serves as the foundation of the cheesesteak flavor. Add to this bell peppers and onions for a hint of sweetness and crunch, and sliced potatoes as the hearty base of the casserole. Choose your favorite cheese for melting—provolone, American, or even a cheese sauce works well to bind all the ingredients together.
Preparing the Meat and Vegetables
Begin by seasoning the beef slices with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor. Sauté the onions and peppers in a skillet until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, adding depth to the casserole. The beef can also be browned quickly in the same skillet to enhance its taste and ensure it’s tender once the casserole is cooked.
Layering the Casserole
In the crockpot, start with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Next, add a layer of the sautéed onions and peppers, followed by the beef. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top. Pour a mixture of beef broth over the layers to add moisture and flavor, helping to cook the potatoes and meld the flavors together.
Cooking to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the beef is cooked through. In the last hour of cooking, add your choice of cheese on top of the casserole, allowing it to melt and lightly brown. If your crockpot has a warm setting, switching to it once the cheese is melted will keep the casserole warm until serving without overcooking the edges.
Serving Your Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
Serve the Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole hot, straight from the crockpot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This casserole is not only a tribute to the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but also a testament to the ease and versatility of slow cooking, making it a must-try for both cheesesteak aficionados and casserole lovers alike.
Customizing the Casserole
One of the joys of Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is its adaptability. For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef and vegetable mixture. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, substitute the beef with chicken or turkey, and use low-fat cheese. Vegetarians can even enjoy a meatless version by replacing the beef with mushrooms or a meat substitute, ensuring the dish remains flavorful and satisfying for everyone.
Making Ahead and Storage Tips
For those busy days, you can prepare the components of the casserole ahead of time. Sauté the onions, peppers, and meat, then store them in the refrigerator overnight. Layer the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and set it to cook. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven, making this casserole a fantastic option for meal prep.
Enhancing the Flavor
To further enhance the flavor of your Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole, consider incorporating a spoonful of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce into the beef mixture. These ingredients add a rich depth to the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or dried thyme among the layers can introduce a new dimension of flavor that complements the cheesesteak theme.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
While the casserole is hearty and satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a side of garlic bread can balance the richness of the cheesesteak flavors. For a beverage pairing, a light beer or a glass of red wine enhances the dining experience, making it reminiscent of a night out at your favorite steakhouse.
Involving Family in the Cooking Process
Cooking the Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole can be a fun family activity. Letting kids layer the ingredients or sprinkle the cheese encourages them to take part in meal preparation and can be a valuable learning experience. This involvement not only makes the cooking process enjoyable but also helps foster a love for homemade meals.
Exploring Different Cheese Options
Experimenting with different types of cheese can significantly alter and enhance the flavor profile of your Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole. Beyond the classic provolone and American cheeses, consider trying gouda for a smoky touch, Swiss for a mild nuttiness, or a sharp cheddar for extra zest. Mixing a couple of cheeses can also create a more complex flavor, making each bite of the casserole a delightful surprise.
Adding a Crunchy Topping
For those who love a bit of texture in their casseroles, adding a crunchy topping in the last few minutes of cooking brings an appealing contrast to the tender layers beneath. A mixture of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, grated Parmesan, or even crushed potato chips can be sprinkled over the top of the cheese layer, then broiled briefly until golden and crispy.
Utilizing Seasonal Vegetables
Incorporating seasonal vegetables into your Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole not only adds freshness and nutrition but also keeps the dish exciting all year round. In the spring, asparagus or green peas can add a bright touch. For summer, consider bell peppers in a variety of colors or zucchini for added texture. Autumn and winter vegetables like mushrooms or butternut squash can introduce a hearty, earthy element to the casserole.
Creating a Signature Sauce
To give your casserole a unique twist, consider creating a signature sauce to mix in with the beef and vegetables or to drizzle on top before serving. A creamy garlic sauce, a spicy chipotle mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce can elevate the dish, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your liking and giving the casserole a personalized touch.
Hosting a Casserole Dinner Party
The Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is perfect for casual dinner parties or family get-togethers. Serve the casserole as the centerpiece of a comfort food-themed night, complemented by other simple, hearty dishes and a selection of craft beers or soft drinks. This not only makes for an easy and enjoyable hosting experience but also showcases the versatility and communal appeal of casserole dishes.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that effortlessly combines the classic taste of a Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a baked potato casserole. Ideal for busy weekdays, cozy family dinners, or entertaining friends, this casserole impresses with its depth of flavor and satisfying richness. By following the recipe and tips provided, along with experimenting with your own variations, you can create a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delicious casserole, knowing that its warm, cheesy goodness will bring smiles to everyone at the table.