Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Ingredients**:
Start by prepping your steak. Cut the boneless sirloin (or another cut of steak you prefer) into small cubes or bite-sized pieces. Season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

Next, peel and thinly slice your potatoes. You can use a mandolin slicer to get uniform slices, or simply use a sharp knife. Thin slices of potato will cook faster and ensure the casserole has a nice, creamy texture.

#### 2. **Layer the Casserole in the Slow Cooker**:
In the bottom of your slow cooker, place a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of seasoned steak cubes. Add a layer of sliced onions if you’re using them. Continue layering in this order—potatoes, steak, onions—until all the ingredients are used up. The potatoes should be the last layer on top.

If you like extra richness, dot the top of the potato layer with small cubes of butter for added creaminess and flavor.

#### 3. **Mix the Sauce**:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup), beef broth, thyme (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine until smooth. This will be the sauce that binds the casserole together as it cooks.

Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers of steak and potatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure the liquid covers most of the ingredients. If necessary, gently press down on the potatoes to submerge them in the liquid.

#### 4. **Cook the Casserole**:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the steak is cooked through. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become creamy and flavorful.

If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but the slow-cooked version will yield the best results in terms of tenderness and flavor.

#### 5. **Add the Cheese**:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese has melted and become bubbly and golden. This final step adds the gooey, cheesy finish that takes the dish from good to absolutely irresistible.

#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Once the casserole is cooked and the cheese is melted, serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

### Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole:

1. **Choose the Right Cut of Steak**: For the best texture, choose a cut of steak that cooks well in the slow cooker. Sirloin, chuck, or round steak are good options because they’re flavorful and become tender when slow-cooked. Cut the steak into small pieces to ensure it cooks evenly with the potatoes.

2. **Uniform Potato Slices**: To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, try to slice them as uniformly as possible. Thin slices (about 1/8-inch thick) work best for achieving that creamy texture. A mandolin slicer can make this task much easier.

3. **Layering is Key**: Layer the potatoes, steak, and onions in your slow cooker to ensure that all the ingredients cook evenly and the flavors blend together beautifully.

4. **Customize the Flavor**: Feel free to add your own twist to the casserole. You can include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste—add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.

5. **Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker**: While it’s tempting to add more ingredients, overcrowding the slow cooker can result in uneven cooking. If necessary, make the casserole in two batches or use a larger slow cooker.

6. **Make it Ahead of Time**: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prep everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it the next day. It’s a great option for busy weekdays or for when you have guests coming over.

### Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

1. **Comfort Food Perfection**: This casserole combines all the comforting flavors you crave—tender steak, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that will warm you from the inside out.

2. **Family-Friendly**: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of steak and cheese with creamy potatoes. It’s a meal that satisfies every member of the family and can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes.

3. **Set-It-and-Forget-It**: With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy a home-cooked, hearty meal with minimal effort. Simply prep, set the timer, and go about your day. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner, a casual family gathering, or a special occasion, this casserole is versatile enough to suit any meal. You can even bring it along to potlucks or gatherings, where it’s sure to be a hit.

5. **A Crowd-Pleaser**: With layers of steak, potatoes, cheese, and savory seasonings, this casserole is guaranteed to please a crowd. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying—perfect for anyone who loves hearty, comfort food.

### Conclusion:

The **Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole** is the perfect dish to satisfy your comfort food cravings. With its layers of tender steak, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, this casserole is a meal everyone will love. Easy to prepare, make-ahead-friendly, and utterly delicious, it’s a must-try for any busy weeknight or family dinner. So fire up the slow cooker, and get ready for a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!