Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of a Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole. Picture creamy potatoes mingling with tender ham, all blanketed in a cheesy goodness that makes your heart sing. perfect glaze for your ham The best part? It practically cooks itself while you go about your day, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy nights or cozy Sundays. For more inspiration, check out this Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe.
This dish has been a family favorite at gatherings, where my relatives devour it like they’ve never seen food before. I remember the first time I served it; there was silence for a solid minute as everyone took their first bite. savory potato side dish You could almost hear the forks clattering to the plates as they raced to get seconds. Trust me, you want this Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole on your table for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will love
- Its creamy texture and cheesy top make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Versatile enough for potlucks or family dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser in every sense!
Creating this casserole has always brought smiles to my family’s faces during special occasions, especially when paired with laughter and stories around the dinner table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ham: Use leftover ham or deli slices for convenience; both add great flavor.
- Potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they hold up well during cooking.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that melty goodness everyone loves; feel free to mix in other cheeses!
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness; half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
- Onion: Diced onions enhance flavor and sweetness; yellow onions work best here.
- Garlic Powder: A little bit of garlic powder adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance everything out; adjust according to taste.
- Butter: For greasing the slow cooker; prevents sticking and adds flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Follow these steps to create your scrumptious Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole: soft buttery potato rolls.
Prepare Your Slow Cooker: First things first, grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter to keep everything from sticking. This step is crucial unless you enjoy scrubbing burnt bits later.
Layer the Potatoes and Ham: Begin layering sliced potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Follow with a layer of ham slices, creating a beautiful contrast between colors and textures.
Add Seasonings and Cheese: Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the layers. This adds tons of flavor right from the start!
Pour on the Creaminess: Gently pour heavy cream over the entire mixture, ensuring that every potato slice gets coated. You want that creamy love to seep into every corner.
Cover and Cook Away!: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s hard to resist peeking too often but trust me—the magic happens when you let it cook undisturbed.
Finish with a Cheesy Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top so it’s perfectly melted when you’re ready to eat!
Now just sit back (or dance around your kitchen) while this meal does its thing! The enticing aroma will have everyone gathering around like moths to a flame.
Enjoying this Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about creating memories! Whether you’re gathered with family or friends, this dish brings people together over laughter, joy, and plenty of seconds. crispy potato skin appetizer Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that transforms leftovers into a creamy delight
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making meal prep effortless and enjoyable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by layering the potatoes, ham, and cheese in the slow cooker. Pour over the creamy sauce and let it work its magic over the course of 6-8 hours on low heat, ensuring everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ham for turkey or add veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk or cream before cooking
- Ensure potatoes are sliced evenly for even cooking
- Don’t skip the cheese; it’s the secret to that gooey goodness!
The first time I made this casserole was during a family reunion, and my cousin declared it “the best use of leftover ham ever.” That compliment still makes me smile!
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time as fresh potatoes take longer to cook.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the creamy sauce to make it gluten-free.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole?
For more inspiration, check out this Tater Tot Casserole recipe.
Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender ham and creamy potatoes under a blanket of melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Simply layer your ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Enjoy a meal that warms both the heart and home!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Grease the slow cooker with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Add half of the diced ham, followed by half of the cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese.
- Pour heavy cream evenly over all layers.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add remaining cheese on top to melt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, include vegetables such as broccoli or spinach. Substitute turkey for ham to create a lighter version of the casserole. Adjust cooking times if using fresh versus frozen ingredients.