If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole. Imagine tender, cheesy potatoes mingling with savory ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all cooked low and slow to meld the flavors perfectly. This dish takes the iconic flavors of a cheesesteak and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying casserole that’s simple enough for any weeknight yet special enough to impress guests. Once you get a taste, this Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe box.

Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. The beauty of this Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is in how straightforward yet flavorful these simple ingredients are, each adding a unique dimension to the final dish—from creamy and cheesy to savory and aromatic.

14 ounces O’Brien hash brown potatoes: These provide the perfect starchy base with a slight onion and pepper kick already built in.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that brings the classic cheesesteak flavor to life.
1 cup diced red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
1 cup diced green bell pepper: Brings a fresh, slightly tangy bite to the mix.
1/2 cup diced yellow onion: Gives a mellow sweetness and depth when cooked down.
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Injects a subtle tang and umami punch that elevates the beef.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: A subtle herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the fresh onions for layered flavor.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of heat.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Provides gooey richness and that irresistible cheesesteak melt.
10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy, savory goodness and binds everything together.
1/2 cup milk: Helps create that luscious, creamy texture.
1/4 cup sour cream: Gives a slight tang and extra creaminess for indulgence.
2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, herby finish that makes the dish pop.

How to Make Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Hash Browns

Start by removing the 14 ounces of O’Brien hash brown potatoes from the freezer and setting them aside. These little guys are your casserole’s hearty base, and using the O’Brien variety means you’ve already got hints of onions and peppers woven into every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Veggies

In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the diced red and green bell peppers, plus the yellow onion. Stir frequently until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables soften up, releasing their sweetness. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming soggy, then keep it warm in the skillet for the next step.

Step 3: Amplify the Flavors

Add Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together to evenly coat the meat and veggies, ensuring every bite will have that irresistible cheesesteak taste.

Step 4: Transfer to the Crock Pot

Move the beef and pepper mixture into your crock pot, spreading it out evenly. This step sets the stage for that slow-cooked magic to happen.

Step 5: Mix the Creamy Base

To the crock pot, add one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Give everything a good stir so the creamy, cheesy sauce binds the meat and potatoes perfectly.

Step 6: Add the Hash Browns

Now, fold in the hash brown potatoes. Mix gently but thoroughly so they are coated well with the sauce and meat mixture. This ensures every potato piece soaks up all those amazing flavors.

Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or high for about 2 hours. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on when the potatoes become fork tender and everything is heated through.

Step 8: Add the Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole, then replace the lid. Let it cook for another 30 minutes to melt the cheese into a golden, gooey topping.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once done, scatter the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and herbaceous flavor—though this is optional, it really makes the dish feel special and inviting.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a beautiful green pop but also a fresh taste that balances the richness. If you want a little extra, try topping with sliced green onions or a few dashes of hot sauce for a kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables adds a nice contrast in texture and freshness to your meal. For something simple, steamed broccoli or a light coleslaw works beautifully to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to wow your family or guests? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or layer it with crispy bacon bits and pickled jalapeños on top for an exciting flavor twist. It also makes a great potluck dish that will disappear fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the next meal taste even better.

Freezing

The Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or the oven until warmed through. To keep that gooey cheese texture, cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F until bubbling hot. Stir gently halfway through if microwaving to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! You can peel and dice fresh potatoes, but be sure to parboil them slightly so they cook fully in the crock pot. Frozen hash browns are just convenient and offer consistent texture.

Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for seasoned mushrooms, or use plant-based ground meat alternatives. Adding extra veggies like zucchini or eggplant can also bulk it up nicely.

Can I use different cheeses?

Certainly! While cheddar gives that classic cheesesteak flavor, try provolone, mozzarella, or even a bit of pepper jack for a spicier twist. Mixing cheeses can add wonderful complexity.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The best test is to make sure the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and that the casserole is heated through and bubbly. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, just ensure your crock pot is large enough to hold the doubled ingredients. You might need to increase the cooking time slightly to accommodate the extra volume.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is the ultimate showstopper for anyone who loves a mix of hearty comfort food and classic cheesesteak flavors. It’s easy to prepare, cooks itself while you relax, and delivers a satisfying meal that brings smiles. Give it a go and enjoy the delicious results—you’re bound to make it a regular in your home kitchen!

Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 4 to 5 hours
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, tender hash brown potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for easy meal prep, this slow cooker recipe delivers classic cheesesteak flavors in a cheesy, satisfying casserole that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Instructions

Prepare Potatoes: Remove the 14 ounces (½ a bag) O’Brien hash brown potatoes from the freezer and set aside to be mixed later in the casserole.
Cook Beef and Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 cup diced red bell pepper, 1 cup diced green bell pepper, and 1/2 cup diced yellow onion until the beef is fully cooked and juices run clear with the onions translucent. Optionally season with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain any excess grease and keep the mixture in the skillet.
Season Beef Mixture: Add 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
Transfer to Crock Pot: Move the seasoned beef and vegetable mixture to a 5-6 quart crock pot, spreading it evenly.
Add Cheese and Creamy Ingredients: Into the crock pot, add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, the 10.5 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/4 cup sour cream. Stir everything together until fully combined.
Mix in Potatoes: Incorporate the hash brown potatoes into the mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the beef and creamy sauce.
Cook in Crock Pot: Cover and cook the casserole on low heat for 3-4 hours or on high for 2 hours, or until the casserole is heated through and the potatoes are fork-tender. Cooking times may vary by slow cooker, so check doneness accordingly.
Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese topping.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness, then serve warm and enjoy this delicious, cheesy cheesesteak potato casserole.

Notes

You can use plain hash browns or O’Brien style with onions and peppers depending on your preference.
Adjust seasoning amounts to suit your taste, especially salt and pepper.
Ensure to drain excess grease after cooking the ground beef for less fat.
Cooking times may vary depending on crock pot model. Check potatoes for tenderness before the minimum cooking time.
This recipe can be doubled for larger slow cookers or gatherings.
For a stronger cheesesteak flavor, consider adding a few dashes of steak seasoning or a little provolone cheese for variation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
Category: Casserole, Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: cheesesteak casserole, crock pot casserole, slow cooker recipe, ground beef casserole, cheesy potato casserole, O’Brien hash browns, easy dinner