Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Potato Casserole. This recipe brings together the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a comforting casserole format, all cooked effortlessly in your slow cooker. With tender ground beef, savory bell peppers, and creamy cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef: Provides the meaty base for the casserole. Lean ground beef is ideal to avoid excessive grease.
• 3 bell peppers, sliced: Adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the dish. You can use a mix of colors (red, green, and yellow) for added visual appeal.
• 1 onion, sliced: Enhances the overall flavor with its sweetness and depth.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy base that melds all the ingredients together.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor of the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the casserole with a subtle garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the fresh onions with additional onion flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings a touch of herbiness and complexity to the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (cubed or shredded): Acts as the hearty base, providing a comforting texture.
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a gooey, cheesy goodness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and a golden finish to the top of the casserole.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. This helps them cook evenly in the slow cooker.

2. Layer the Ingredients

1. Layer the Potatoes: Begin by placing half of the frozen hash browns in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will form the base layer of your casserole.
2. Add the Beef: Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the hash browns.
3. Add the Vegetables: Place the sliced bell peppers and onion on top of the beef.
4. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the vegetable layer.
5. Add the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the beef broth. Pour this mixture evenly over the vegetables and beef in the slow cooker.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the mixture. Follow with the remaining frozen hash browns.

3. Cook the Casserole

1. Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The hash browns should be tender and the cheese melted and bubbly.
2. Add Cheddar Cheese: About 15 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and continue to cook until the cheddar cheese is melted and slightly golden.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional sliced green onions for a touch of color and freshness.
3. Serve: Scoop out generous portions and serve warm. This casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Potato Casserole

• Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned for maximum flavor. This step adds depth to the dish and reduces any excess grease.
• Layering Matters: Proper layering helps the flavors meld better. Start with potatoes at the bottom for a solid base, then add beef and vegetables.
• Avoid Soggy Hash Browns: If you prefer crispier hash browns, cook the casserole on high for the last hour or place under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the top layer.
• Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gouda, for a unique twist on the classic flavors.

Variations

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
• Chicken Option: Substitute ground beef with cooked chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Potato Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that combines the best elements of a cheesesteak sandwich with the ease of slow cooking. With its layers of tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and gooey cheese, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a hearty meal with minimal effort. Enjoy every flavorful bite and savor the satisfaction of a meal that cooks itself!

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