Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

I still remember the first time I tried making a casserole. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I wanted something hearty but easy—no complicated steps, no fancy tools. That’s when I stumbled on a potato-meets-philly-cheesesteak idea that felt just right. It became my go-to comfort meal.

This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a perfect starting point for beginner cooks. It’s made in one pot (hello, easy cleanup), packed with flavor, and doesn’t require any oven babysitting. You simply layer, cook low and slow, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, meaty, veggie-filled dish that tastes like a hug in casserole form. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to serve up a quick and healthy meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.

Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Why This Recipe is Special

This dish brings together two beloved comfort food elements: the bold, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the creamy, cozy texture of a potato casserole. But instead of juggling a stovetop and oven, you toss it all into a slow cooker—making it a dream for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

What makes this easy sheet pan dinner alternative so appealing is its adaptability. It’s hard to mess up, and even if you do overcook something a bit, it still ends up tasting great. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is a warm welcome to the world of cooking for anyone who wants reliable results without culinary gymnastics.

Ingredients and Preparation

Russet Potatoes – The foundation of the casserole, offering a starchy base that soaks up all the juicy, cheesy goodness. You can also use Yukon gold or sweet potatoes for a different twist.

Thinly Sliced Steak or Roast Beef – Classic cheesesteak flavor depends on tender beef. Use ribeye if you want something rich, or deli-style roast beef for convenience.

Bell Peppers – They add color, crunch, and sweetness. Green peppers are traditional, but red or yellow work beautifully too.

Onions – Essential for that deep, caramel-like flavor that anchors the dish.

Shredded Cheese – Provolone or mozzarella for that melty stretch. You can swap in cheddar or even pepper jack for a kick.

Cream of Mushroom Soup – This binds everything together and adds creamy texture. You can use cream of chicken or a homemade roux if you prefer fewer processed ingredients.

Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper – These bring the flavor to life. You can also toss in Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a little something extra.

Olive Oil or Butter – A bit of fat helps the meat brown slightly and gives the casserole richness.

Beef Broth (Optional) – For added moisture and depth, especially if you like it extra saucy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner to avoid sticking and cleanup headaches.

Step 2
Wash and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. No need to peel unless you prefer it smoother. Spread them in an even layer at the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 3
Layer thinly sliced onions and bell peppers over the potatoes. If you like them softer, slice them thinner.

Step 4
Add your steak or roast beef slices on top of the veggies. Try to distribute them evenly for balanced bites.

Step 5
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of beef broth if you want a looser consistency.

Step 6
Pour the mixture over the crockpot layers and spread it gently to coat everything. Top with shredded cheese, saving some for later.

Step 7
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. It’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the beef is juicy.

Step 8
Sprinkle the remaining cheese in the last 15 minutes of cooking and let it melt to perfection.

Beginner Tips and Notes

  • Sliced too thick? Potatoes that are too chunky might not cook through evenly. Stick to uniform sizes around ½ inch thick.
  • Too dry? Add a bit of broth mid-cook if it seems dry. Different crockpots retain moisture differently.
  • Overbrowned meat? You can mix everything once halfway through cooking to prevent burning edges.
  • No slow cooker? Bake in a covered dish at 350°F for about an hour, checking doneness after 45 minutes.

Prep Tip: Chop everything the night before and store in separate containers in the fridge. In the morning, just dump and go.

Tool Swap: If you don’t have a slow cooker, use a Dutch oven or large covered casserole dish for oven baking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli to add freshness and color.

For sauces, consider a drizzle of sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or even ketchup if you’re serving kids.

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. It also freezes surprisingly well—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Let’s Make It Together

Trying a new recipe can feel intimidating, but this lemon herb chicken recipe—oops, I mean cheesesteak potato casserole—is a gentle way to dip your toes into home cooking. It’s flexible, forgiving, and full of flavor. Plus, there’s something magical about coming home to the smell of dinner ready and waiting.

If you give this easy sheet pan dinner alternative a try, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you make it spicier? Use sweet potatoes? Tell me your twist in the comments below—I read every one.

Happy slow cooking, and remember: every great cook was once a beginner. You’ve got this.

FAQ About Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Can I use a different type of meat instead of steak?

Yes, you can substitute the steak with shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or deli roast beef slices. Just make sure it’s cooked or sliced thin for even slow cooking.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, peeling is optional. Russet potatoes have a slightly thicker skin that softens in the crockpot, but if you prefer a smoother texture, go ahead and peel them.

Can I make this casserole without cream of mushroom soup?

Absolutely. You can use cream of chicken or make a quick roux with butter, flour, and milk to create a creamy base without canned soup.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

Make sure to avoid using overly wet vegetables and don’t add too much broth. You can also crack the lid open during the last 30 minutes to let steam escape.

More Relevant Recipes

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ashely
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, hearty one-pot meal inspired by the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Perfect for beginners, it’s a hands-off, comforting dish made with tender beef, melty cheese, and soft potatoes—all slow-cooked to perfection.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, diced
  • 1 pound thinly sliced steak or roast beef
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray or use a liner. Layer the diced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Add the Veggies: Top the potatoes with sliced bell peppers and onions. Distribute them evenly so each bite gets a bit of both.
  3. Layer the Meat: Place the thinly sliced steak or roast beef on top of the vegetables. Try to avoid clumping so it cooks uniformly.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add beef broth if using, and stir until smooth.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables. Use a spoon to gently spread it across the top without mixing the layers. Sprinkle 1½ cups of cheese over everything.
  6. Cook the Casserole: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the meat is fully cooked and juicy.
  7. Finish with Cheese: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the remaining ½ cup of cheese. Re-cover the crockpot and let the cheese melt into a gooey topping.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to settle. Use a large spoon to scoop portions directly from the slow cooker.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sauté the onions and peppers briefly before adding them. To make it spicier, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Feel free to swap the cream of mushroom with a homemade béchamel sauce for a less processed version. Sweet potatoes or Yukon golds also work well as potato alternatives.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 generous cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star