Tender steak and hearty potatoes slow-cooked in a savory blend of spices, cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon make this Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake the ultimate comfort food. It’s a complete, filling meal made in one pot—rich, cheesy, and satisfying from the very first bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
6 medium red potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes
1 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
I start by lightly greasing the bottom of my 6-quart crockpot with olive oil or a bit of nonstick spray. Then, in a large bowl, I toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly.
Next, I layer half the seasoned potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot, then add half the steak cubes, followed by half the diced onions and minced garlic. I repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, steak, onion, and garlic.
I cover and cook everything on low for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3.5–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is perfectly cooked. In the last 10–15 minutes, I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and let it melt with the lid on.
Once everything is done, I top it with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. A little fresh parsley on top makes it look extra inviting when I serve it hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3.5–4 hours (on high)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Calories: 462 kcal per serving
Variations
When I want to change things up, I sometimes use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for a different texture. I’ve also swapped out the sirloin for chuck roast or stew meat when I have it on hand. For a little spice, I like to add a pinch of cayenne or a few jalapeño slices. And if I want to lighten it up, I’ll use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat. If I want to keep the texture of the potatoes and steak just right, the stovetop method works best. I avoid freezing this dish since the potatoes can get grainy after thawing.
FAQs
How do I keep the steak from drying out in the crockpot?
I make sure to use a well-marbled cut like sirloin and avoid overcooking. Cooking on low and layering with the potatoes helps keep the steak moist and tender.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep everything the night before, layer it in the crockpot insert, and refrigerate. In the morning, I just pop it into the base and start cooking.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If I don’t have bacon or want a different flavor, I use cooked pancetta or even turkey bacon. For a vegetarian twist, I sometimes skip the bacon altogether and just load up on cheese and green onions.
Can I use frozen steak or potatoes?
I don’t recommend using frozen ingredients because they release excess moisture and can make the dish watery. I always thaw them completely and pat them dry first if I need to use frozen.
How do I make it spicier?
To add heat, I like to toss in red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning the potatoes. A pepper jack cheese topping also brings in a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is a comfort food classic I keep coming back to. With its savory layers, gooey cheese, and crisp bacon, it’s the kind of meal that fills everyone up and leaves no leftovers behind. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a laid-back family gathering, it’s a dish I know will always satisfy.
Recipe:
Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender steak and hearty potatoes slow-cooked with cheddar cheese, garlic, onion, and smoky bacon make this Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake the ultimate comfort food. It's rich, cheesy, and filling—perfect for a no-fuss family dinner.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
6 medium red potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes
1 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Layer half of the seasoned potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot, then add half the steak cubes, followed by half the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, steak, onion, and garlic.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3.5–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is cooked through.
- In the last 10–15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top and cover to melt.
- Once done, top with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for a different texture.
Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Do not use frozen steak or potatoes to avoid excess moisture.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days but are not ideal for freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 462
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
