🥔🥩 Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and hearty comfort meal that cooks itself while you go about your day, this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, colorful bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that blends the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the cozy goodness of a potato casserole. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the work for you. 🍽️
Why This Recipe Works
- ✅ Minimal prep – just layer ingredients and let the crockpot do its magic
- ✅ Rich flavors of beef, garlic, and peppers infused into tender potatoes
- ✅ Crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or game day
- ✅ Easily customizable with your favorite cheese or extra veggies
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained
- 3 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 large scoop minced garlic
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet, cook ground beef with minced garlic, salt, and pepper until browned. Drain excess grease to prevent your casserole from becoming too oily.
2. Layer in the Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray. Begin layering thinly sliced potatoes, followed by cooked beef, sliced bell peppers, and onions.
3. Season Each Layer
Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on each layer to build flavor throughout the casserole.
4. Add Broth and Cheese
Pour beef broth evenly over the layers. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend for extra creaminess).
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Finish with Cheese
Before serving, sprinkle an extra layer of cheese on top. Cover until melted for an ooey-gooey finish. 🧀
Chef Tips from the Pros
Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Thinly slice your potatoes as evenly as possible — uneven cuts can lead to some being undercooked.”
Chef Ina Garten: “Adding Italian seasoning gives the dish a subtle herby note that balances the richness of beef and cheese.”
Chef Bobby Flay: “For an authentic cheesesteak twist, try swapping cheddar with provolone or mozzarella.”
Health Tips & Considerations
- 🥔 Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes for extra fiber and vitamins.
- 🥦 Add mushrooms or spinach for more veggies without altering flavor.
- 🧂 Reduce cheese slightly for a lighter version.
- 🥩 Use lean ground beef (90/10) to cut down on fat.
- ⚠️ Allow leftovers to cool before refrigerating to prevent foodborne illness.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Amount | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1.5 lbs | Excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12 |
| Potatoes | 4–5 medium | High in potassium and fiber, supports energy levels |
| Bell Peppers | 3 medium | Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants |
| Onion & Garlic | 1 onion, 1 scoop garlic | Supports immune health, anti-inflammatory properties |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | Provides calcium and protein, enhances flavor |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad for balance 🥗
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls 🍞
- Top with fresh parsley for color and freshness 🌿
- Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed peppers 🌶️
FAQs About Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, it makes the dish leaner.
- Can I prepare this the night before? Yes, layer ingredients in the crockpot, cover, and refrigerate. Cook the next day.
- How do I prevent soggy potatoes? Slice potatoes thin and don’t add too much liquid.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, but for best texture, freeze before cooking and thaw overnight before slow cooking.
- What cheese works best? Provolone, mozzarella, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Can I make it spicy? Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or pepper jack cheese.
- Do I need to peel the potatoes? No, skins add fiber and texture, but peeling is optional.
- What size crockpot should I use? A 6-quart crockpot works best for this recipe.
- How long do leftovers last? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Can I bake this in the oven instead? Yes, layer ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 60–70 minutes.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Final Thoughts
The Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort dish when you want something hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, peppers, onions, and melted cheese, it’s a one-pot meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to please. 🧡
