Forget standing over a hot stove – imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy steak nestled amongst perfectly cooked, creamy potatoes, all infused with incredible flavor after simmering away in your slow cooker. This Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes recipe is pure comfort food magic, ready to welcome you home after a long day. Get ready for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds… and the recipe!
The Star Ingredients
Let’s gather everything we need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s mostly pantry staples!
Steak & Spices:
- 1.5 – 2 lbs Sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Potatoes & Creaminess:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 4 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Sour cream
- 1/4 cup Milk (or more, to adjust consistency)
Toppings (Get Creative!):
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Green onions, chopped
- Optional: Dollop of sour cream, additional cheese, hot sauce
Step-by-Step to Crockpot Heaven
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be enjoying your Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes in no time. I promise it’s easier than it looks!
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Sear the Steak (Optional, but Recommended!):
This step adds incredible flavor! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This creates a delicious crust that locks in the juices.
Pro-Tip: Don’t skip this step if you have the time. The extra flavor is totally worth it! However, if you’re in a rush, you can skip the searing and add the steak directly to the crockpot. It will still be delicious, just with a slightly different texture.
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Combine the Steak and Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the seared steak cubes, cubed potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the steak and potatoes are evenly coated with the spices.
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Layer in the Crockpot:
Transfer the steak and potato mixture to your crockpot. Pour the beef broth over the top.
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Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is tender and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
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Make it Creamy:
Once the steak and potatoes are cooked, stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. If needed, add more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the perfect consistency. If it’s too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the crockpot and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until thickened.
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Load It Up!:
Top with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, and chopped green onions. Let the cheese melt slightly from the heat of the potatoes.
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Serve & Enjoy!:
Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes! Don’t forget to offer extra sour cream, cheese, or hot sauce for those who like a little extra kick.
Flavor Boosters and Customizations
This recipe is fantastic as is, but feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the steak and potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Herb Power: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a bright, fresh flavor to the finished dish. Sprinkle them on top just before serving.
- Gravy Lovers: If you like a richer gravy, you can add a packet of beef gravy mix to the crockpot along with the beef broth.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it can be made ahead of time! Here’s how:
- Prep Ahead: You can sear the steak and chop the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Assemble Ahead: You can combine all the ingredients (except the cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and toppings) in the crockpot insert the night before. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, then place it in the crockpot and cook as directed.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
What to Serve with Your Crockpot Creation
While Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes is a complete meal in itself, here are a few side dishes that would complement it perfectly:
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and delicious options.
- Crusty Bread: For sopping up all that delicious sauce!
Other Slow Cooker Delights to Explore
If you love the ease and convenience of slow cooking, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy. You can try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes for another comforting meal. If you’re in the mood for something different, Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole is a fantastic choice. Or, for a simple yet satisfying dish, try the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Potatoes. Craving a hearty soup? Check out Beef Potato Soup or Creamy Potato Soup. And if you love the combination of steak and potatoes, you might also enjoy Steak & Cheddar Potato Casserole.
Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Winner
Let’s be real, weeknights are busy! This Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes recipe is a lifesaver because:
- It’s Easy: Minimal prep work and a “set it and forget it” cooking method make it perfect for busy schedules.
- It’s Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your family’s tastes and preferences.
- It’s Budget-Friendly: You can use less expensive cuts of steak, as the slow cooking process will tenderize them beautifully.
- It’s a Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a hearty and comforting meal!
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Recipe
There you have it – the ultimate guide to making Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes! This recipe is a guaranteed win, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. You’ve got this!
Can I skip searing the steak?
While recommended for maximum flavor, searing the steak is optional. If you’re short on time, you can add the steak directly to the crockpot, though the texture will be slightly different.
What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
What if the sauce is too thick or too thin after cooking?
If the sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the crockpot and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potatoes Ultimate
Equipment
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Large skillet
- Large bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1.5 – 2 lbs Sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Dried thyme
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black pepper
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 4 oz Cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Sour cream
- ¼ cup Milk or more, to adjust consistency
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup Cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup Green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- In a large bowl, combine the seared steak cubes, cubed potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the steak and potatoes are evenly coated with the spices.
- Transfer the steak and potato mixture to your crockpot. Pour the beef broth over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is tender and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- Once the steak and potatoes are cooked, stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. If needed, add more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, and chopped green onions. Let the cheese melt slightly from the heat of the potatoes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
