Crockpot Loaded Steak Potato Bake

Nothing warms the house quite like this Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake bubbling away all day. My family cheers whenever they smell it cooking. The recipe combines hearty steak, tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon for a complete comfort meal with nearly no prep effort.

I tossed this together for a game night once and everyone went back for second helpings. Now it is my go-to choice for cold weekend dinners.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Steak: Choose sirloin or ribeye for best flavor and tenderness; prep into even cubes so everything cooks evenly
• Russet potatoes: Provide a hearty bite and stand up well to long cooking; choose firm unblemished potatoes
• Large onion: Adds depth and sweetens as it cooks; use yellow or white for mellower flavor
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings gooey richness; buy a block and shred it for best melting
• Cooked and crumbled bacon: Gives smoky crunch; precook until crisp to avoid soggy pieces
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky sauce; you can swap half and half for lighter results
• Fresh garlic: Adds punchy aroma and flavor; always use fresh and mince finely
• Salt and black pepper: For foundational seasoning; use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for best results
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Build up background layers of flavor
• Paprika: For a hint of warmth; sweet or smoked works
• Chopped green onions: Finish the dish with freshness; pick firm and vibrant green stalks
• Cooking spray: Ensures effortless cleanup; coat the crockpot well to prevent sticking

How to Make It

Prepare the Crockpot:

Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray so nothing sticks and the cheese will not scorch during the long cooking time.

Layer the Main Ingredients:

Add the cubed steak, cubed potatoes, and chopped onion to the crockpot, making sure the pieces are spread out so everything cooks evenly.

Mix and Add Seasonings:

Use a small bowl to blend together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the steak, potatoes, and onions so every bite is coated.

Combine Cream, Cheese, and Garlic:

Stir the minced garlic, heavy cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese directly into the crockpot. Toss gently so the meat and potatoes are well mixed and evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy base.

Slow Cook the Bake:

Put the lid securely on your crockpot. Set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Let it cook until the potatoes are fork tender and the steak is completely cooked through. The long simmering time melds all the flavors.

Add Cheese and Bacon for the Final Melt:

About 30 minutes before the bake is done, scatter the remaining grated cheese and all the cooked crumbled bacon right over the top. Replace the lid and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the crockpot insert and sprinkle chopped green onions over the cheesy top for color and fresh flavor. Scoop and serve hot, straight from the pot.

My favorite ingredient is the sharp cheddar cheese because it gets perfectly melty and coats the meat and potatoes. Every time I pull off the lid and see that bubbly cheese, my kids come running to the kitchen for first dibs. I will always remember my son sneaking bacon crumbles from the top before serving.

Flavor Boosters

Stir in a dash of smoked paprika, swap in pepper jack or Monterey jack for the cheddar cheese, or add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper umami profile. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also make for a lively finish.

Serving Suggestions

Present with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for color and crunch. Spoon some sour cream or chives on top to make it even more crowd pleasing. Serve with crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping.

Creative Twists

Swap steak for pork shoulder or chicken thighs. Substitute Yukon gold or sweet potatoes for a new flavor. For a vegetarian version, leave out the steak and add mushrooms and sautéed peppers for extra substance. Make it a freezer meal by assembling ingredients ahead and thawing before cooking.

Experience tells me the best part of this bake is sharing it straight from the slow cooker while everyone grabs a serving spoon and digs in. Enjoy the simple magic of a comfort classic that always brings people together.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, sirloin, ribeye, or your favorite cut all work well. Choose a tender option for best texture.

→ Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream for a less rich, lighter result.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try including diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to boost nutrition.

→ What toppings work well?

Extra green onions, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce make delicious additions.

→ Is a side dish necessary?

This meal can stand alone, but pairs nicely with a crisp side salad or steamed green vegetables.