Introduction
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that combines tender, juicy steak, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and a generous helping of cheese, bacon, and green onions—all simmered to perfection in a crockpot. Our Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake brings the essence of a steakhouse-style meal into the comfort of your home with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
This dish is a weeknight hero, weekend indulgence, and potluck showstopper rolled into one. With its slow-cooked heartiness, layers of creamy, cheesy texture, and bold seasoning, it’s a game-changer for any meat and potato lover. Designed to melt in your mouth, this one-pot masterpiece is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or craving something soul-warming, this recipe is the perfect solution. And thanks to the magic of slow cooking, your home will be filled with rich aromas that make dinnertime feel like a cozy celebration.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs sirloin steak, cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- Non-stick cooking spray
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. You can also use a crockpot liner if preferred.
Step 2: Brown the Steak
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the cubed sirloin steak just until browned. Season with a bit of salt and pepper while cooking. This step locks in flavor and keeps the meat juicy during slow cooking.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with the melted butter, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Layer half the seasoned potatoes into the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 4: Add Steak and Onion
Place half the seared steak over the potato layer. Top with half of the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sprinkle a light layer of cheese over this section. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, steak, onion, and garlic.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the crockpot. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3.5-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the steak is melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Step 6: Add Toppings
In the final 15–20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt fully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle with green onions for a burst of freshness and color. Serve directly from the crockpot for a family-style feast.
Variation
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add ½ cup of salsa and a drained can of black beans for a Mexican-inspired version. Use pepper jack cheese for extra kick.
- Cheeseburger Style: Use ground beef instead of steak, add chopped pickles, and drizzle with burger sauce before serving.
- Ranch Infused: Mix 1 packet of ranch seasoning into the sour cream mixture for a zesty, tangy punch.
- Veggie Loaded: Toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas to increase the nutritional value.
- Creamy Upgrade: Substitute milk with heavy cream or a cream of mushroom soup for an ultra-rich base.
COOKING Note:
For the best texture, do not skip browning the steak. It enhances flavor and keeps the meat from becoming rubbery. Also, if you’re using frozen potatoes, thaw and pat them dry first to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for freshness and balance.
- Pair with garlic bread or buttermilk biscuits to soak up the cheesy sauce.
- A cold glass of iced tea or red wine makes an excellent accompaniment.
- Add a dollop of extra sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips:
- Choose the right cut: Sirloin, chuck roast, or ribeye works best due to their marbling and tenderness.
- Make it ahead: Prep all ingredients the night before, layer them in your crockpot insert, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in and go.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Use the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk if the potatoes look dry.
- Double the batch: Great for meal prep or freezing for a later day. Freeze in individual portions for convenience.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on LOW / 3.5-4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 6.5-7.5 hours
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 610 | Protein: 36g | Sodium: 820mg | Saturated Fat: 12g | Unsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 0g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fiber: 4g | Cholesterol: 110mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, chicken breast, pork loin, or ground beef are all suitable alternatives. Adjust cook time accordingly for tenderness.
Can I make this in the oven instead of a crockpot?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour, covered, then uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use certified gluten-free ingredients, especially the seasonings and sour cream.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute with plant-based sour cream, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese. Use olive oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter.
How do I prevent the potatoes from turning mushy?
Use starchier potatoes like russets and cut them evenly. Cooking on low heat is also key to maintaining their structure.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is the ultimate in slow-cooked, cheesy, meaty indulgence. Whether you’re craving comfort food or planning a hearty family meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal hands-on time. From the buttery potatoes to the savory seared steak and melty cheese, every bite brings warmth and satisfaction. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience worth savoring. Try it once, and it might just become a permanent fixture in your comfort food rotation.