Description
Savor the flavors of Philly cheesesteak in a comforting, cheesy potato casserole made right in your crockpot! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredient List
Each ingredient brings essential flavors and textures to this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: 4–5 medium, thinly sliced
- Potatoes serve as the casserole’s base, adding a creamy, hearty texture.
- Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak: 1 lb, thinly sliced or cubed
- Provides the main protein and is inspired by the beef used in cheesesteaks.
- Bell Peppers: 1 green and 1 red, thinly sliced
- Adds color, sweetness, and a hint of crunch, balancing the richness of the cheese and beef.
- Yellow Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Adds a mild, savory flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
- Shredded Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese: 1–1.5 cups
- Melts into a gooey layer, providing a creamy texture and enhancing the cheesesteak flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened
- Adds a rich, creamy consistency to the cheese sauce.
- Beef Broth: 1/2 cup
- Adds moisture, enhancing the flavor and ensuring the casserole doesn’t dry out.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Adds subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Enhances and balances flavors throughout the casserole.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
These instructions will guide you to creating a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Thinly slice the potatoes into uniform rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly in the crockpot.
- Slice the beef into thin strips or small cubes for quick, even cooking.
- Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips, which will soften and add flavor to the casserole.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Start with a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot. This base layer helps distribute heat and ensures the potatoes cook through.
- Add a layer of sliced beef, followed by bell peppers and onion slices. Spread the ingredients evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Repeat the layering until all potatoes, beef, and vegetables are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the layered ingredients in the crockpot, using a spatula to spread it evenly. The sauce will melt and seep through the layers as it cooks, coating everything in a creamy, cheesy flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low.
- Cook for 4–5 hours on low, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Gently scoop portions of the casserole onto plates, using a spatula to lift the layers without breaking them apart.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve warm alongside a crisp side salad, crusty bread, or as a stand-alone meal.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. Each bite is a blend of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and savory beef, all infused with the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Enjoy!
Notes
Tips for a Perfect Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Thinly Slice the Potatoes: Slice potatoes to about 1/4 inch thick for consistent cooking. Thin, even slices cook faster and allow the potatoes to become tender without becoming mushy. Use a mandoline slicer if possible for precision.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before mixing it into the cheese sauce. Softened cream cheese blends more easily with other ingredients, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the potatoes and beef evenly.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. For a creamier sauce, shred your own cheese from a block of provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Place a layer of potatoes on the bottom of the crockpot, followed by layers of beef, bell peppers, and cheese sauce. This layering method prevents the cheese from sticking to the crockpot walls and ensures the ingredients cook evenly.
- Keep the Lid On: To ensure even cooking, keep the crockpot lid on throughout the cooking process. Lifting the lid releases heat and can extend cooking time, affecting the texture of the potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Finish with a Fresh Cheese Layer: For a gooey, melty top, sprinkle an extra layer of shredded cheese over the casserole about 10 minutes before serving. The cheese will melt to create an appetizing golden crust on top.
- Serve Warm: This casserole is best enjoyed straight from the crockpot while it’s still warm and creamy. The texture and flavor are at their peak when served immediately.