When you need a comforting, no-fuss dinner that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Beef & Potatoes recipe delivers every time. Tender beef, soft potatoes, and a rich cheddar sauce come together in one cozy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or feeding a hungry family with minimal effort.
The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the flavors to meld slowly while you go about your day. By dinnertime, you’re rewarded with a hearty, creamy meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—when you really didn’t
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✔ One-pot, set-it-and-forget-it meal
- ✔ Rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting
- ✔ Family-friendly and filling
- ✔ Budget-conscious ingredients
- ✔ Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
Ingredients
- 1½–2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1½ lbs potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Layer the Base
Place diced potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with beef, onion, and garlic. - Season & Add Liquid
Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme over the ingredients. Pour in the beef broth. - Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and potatoes are fork-soft. - Make It Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in now. - Finish & Serve
Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra flavor, sear the beef briefly before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Use sharp cheddar for a richer, more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Want veggies? Add carrots or peas during the last hour of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—they reheat beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy cheddar beef and potatoes with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Beef & Potatoes recipe is the definition of comfort food made easy. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor—perfect for days when you want something homemade without the hassle. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your slow-cooker rotation.