Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

Introduction

If you’re craving the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want an easy, family-friendly twist, this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is just the recipe for you. It combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, colorful bell peppers, and plenty of melty cheese into a hearty one-pot meal that cooks low and slow in your crockpot. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a weeknight dinner your whole family will love.

My recipe story

This recipe was inspired by my love for cheesesteaks and casseroles. Growing up, my family often made cheesesteak sandwiches on busy weeknights, and I wanted to recreate that nostalgic flavor in a dish that was hands-off and easy to share at the dinner table. The slow cooker turned out to be the perfect solution—it tenderizes the potatoes, infuses the beef with peppery sweetness, and allows the cheese to melt into creamy, gooey perfection. Now, this Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole has become a regular in our home, especially during chilly nights when comfort food is non-negotiable.

Ingredient breakdown

This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients you may already have in your fridge and pantry. Ground beef forms the base, bringing hearty protein and a savory bite. Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot ensures extra flavor and removes excess fat.

Potatoes are the next star ingredient, giving the casserole bulk and a creamy texture once slow-cooked. I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best results, but any starchy potato works. Bell peppers not only add vibrant color but also balance the richness of the meat with natural sweetness. Finally, cheese ties everything together—it melts beautifully, creating that irresistible cheesesteak flavor. Feel free to use provolone for a traditional Philly taste or cheddar for extra sharpness.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet (for browning ground beef)
• Crockpot or slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)

Step-by-step directions

1. Brown the beef: Start by cooking 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step enhances the flavor and keeps your casserole from becoming greasy later on.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Slice 3 bell peppers into thin strips. Dice your potatoes into bite-sized cubes, keeping them relatively even so they cook consistently in the crockpot. This prep ensures each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
3. Layer the ingredients: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot. Spread half of the potatoes across the bottom, followed by half of the ground beef and half of the peppers. Repeat the layers once more to create a hearty base that will cook evenly.
4. Add seasoning and cheese: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the layers. Add half of your shredded cheese now to allow it to melt throughout the casserole. Reserve the remaining cheese for later topping.
5. Slow cook to perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and everything is well combined. About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover until melted.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the casserole is fully cooked and the cheese is melted, scoop generous portions into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily adapt this casserole to your taste preferences. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced steak for a more authentic cheesesteak flavor. Add mushrooms, onions, or jalapeños for extra depth. For a lighter version, try using sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes. Cheese lovers can experiment with Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different spin. If you want to make it vegetarian, replace the beef with a plant-based crumble or extra veggies like zucchini and eggplant.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Leftovers store beautifully, making this recipe ideal for meal prep. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 2 months. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For make-ahead, assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply place the insert back in the slow cooker and start cooking.

Serving ideas & pairings

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side can balance the richness. Try serving with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple coleslaw for a tangy crunch. For drinks, consider a cold glass of iced tea, soda, or even a light beer to complement the savory flavors. This dish also works great for potlucks, where it can be served alongside other comfort classics like mac and cheese or cornbread.

FAQ

Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns work well. Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe? Provolone is traditional for cheesesteaks, but cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend all taste amazing.

Can I make this in the oven instead? Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in a casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for about 45–55 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

How do I prevent soggy potatoes? Make sure to cut them evenly and avoid adding too much liquid. Drain your beef well to minimize excess moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as all seasoning blends and cheese used are gluten-free.

Final thoughts

This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is the perfect fusion of two comfort food classics—cheesesteaks and casseroles—brought together in a slow cooker for maximum ease. It’s rich, cheesy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, making it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, planning a meal prep session, or looking for a dish to share at a potluck, this casserole checks every box. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.

Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crockpot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained

• 3 bell peppers, sliced

• 6 medium potatoes, diced into cubes

• 2 cups shredded provolone or cheddar cheese, divided

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or nonstick spray

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Instructions

1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.

2. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes and slice the bell peppers into strips.

3. Lightly grease the crockpot, then layer half of the potatoes, half of the beef, and half of the peppers. Repeat the layers.

4. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the layers, then top with half of the cheese.

5. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

6. About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt. Serve hot.

Notes

For variety, swap in ground turkey, chicken, or thinly sliced steak. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American