Introduction
There’s something inherently comforting about a meal that combines the hearty flavors of steak and potatoes. Add the ease and convenience of a crockpot, and you have a winning recipe that practically cooks itself. The Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is a dish that brings together tender chunks of sirloin steak, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and a delightful topping of melted cheese and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat, satisfying dinner that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Recipe
The Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is a savory and filling dish that takes the classic combination of steak and potatoes to new heights. By using a crockpot, you allow the flavors to meld together over several hours, resulting in tender meat and perfectly cooked potatoes. The addition of cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions not only adds layers of flavor but also makes this dish incredibly inviting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress while requiring minimal effort from you.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into chunks: Choose a good quality sirloin steak to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.
– 4 cups diced potatoes (skin on or off): Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for this recipe. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a rich, cheesy topping. Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor.
– ½ cup crumbled bacon: Cooked until crispy, bacon adds a smoky, savory element.
– 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic taste.
– 1 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
– ½ tsp paprika: Provides a mild heat and a lovely color.
– Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning both the potatoes and the steak.
– ¼ cup chopped green onions: Fresh green onions for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
– Olive oil: For drizzling over the potatoes to help them cook evenly and absorb the seasonings.
Directions/Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare the Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake:
1. Begin by preparing your crockpot. Spray the inside with nonstick spray to prevent the ingredients from sticking and make cleaning up a breeze.
2. Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot. Drizzle them with a little olive oil to help them cook evenly and absorb the seasonings.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a generous amount of salt and pepper over the potatoes. Toss them gently to ensure they are well coated with the olive oil and seasonings.
4. Lay the chunks of sirloin steak on top of the seasoned potatoes. Lightly season the steak with a bit more salt and pepper to taste.
5. Set your crockpot to LOW and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or choose the HIGH setting for a quicker cooking time of 3 to 4 hours. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your crockpot model.
6. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top of the steak and potatoes. Cover the crockpot and allow the cheese to melt and the bacon to warm through.
7. Once the cheese has melted and everything is heated through, your dish is ready to serve. Garnish with the chopped green onions for added flavor and a burst of color.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake:
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can substitute sirloin steak with other cuts such as flank steak or ribeye. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut and thickness of the meat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble everything in the crockpot in the morning and set it to cook as you head out for the day.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the mix. Just dice them and add them with the potatoes for a balanced meal.
Is there a way to make this dish spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the seasoning mix.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake is a delightful dish that combines the ease of slow cooking with the rich, satisfying flavors of steak and potatoes. This recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal preparation, you can enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to please the entire family. So, gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Once you’ve tried this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the compliments that are sure to follow!