Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole: Comfort Food Made Easy Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate midweek comfort meal. It combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese for a cozy one-pot dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cups diced ham, from leftovers or store-bought ham steak
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prep your potatoes by rinsing, peeling, and slicing them about a quarter inch thick for even cooking.
2. Step 2: Layer half of the potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot, then sprinkle half of the diced ham and chopped onions on top.
3. Step 3: Scatter half of the minced garlic over the layers, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, onions, and garlic, pressing down gently for even cooking.
5. Step 5: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the layers, then drizzle the heavy cream or milk on top.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for about four hours or on high for two to three hours, until potatoes are fork tender.
7. Step 7: About ten minutes before serving, uncover the crockpot and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the casserole. Let it melt and turn golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Peel and slice potatoes a day ahead and store them in water in the fridge to speed up prep time.
• Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Use low sodium broth to control saltiness and enhance other flavors.
• Swap heavy cream for milk for a lighter texture or vice versa for extra richness.
• Line the crockpot with a reusable liner or spray with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
• Top with crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a playful crunch or bright finish.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place under the broiler for a minute to crisp the top. You can also wrap leftovers in tortillas or pita bread for a tasty on-the-go lunch that reheats well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is the best way to layer potatoes and ham?

Start with a layer of potatoes, then evenly add ham and onions. Repeat this layering to keep the flavors balanced and ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.

Can I swap milk for cream or vice versa?

Yes, you can use milk for a lighter dish or cream for a richer texture. Just keep in mind cream will add extra richness and may slightly affect the cooking time and consistency.

How do I know when it is done?

Test the potatoes by inserting a fork; they should slide in easily with no resistance, indicating they are tender and perfectly cooked.

Is it okay to add frozen veggies?

Absolutely. Add peas, carrots, or mixed veggies about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends to keep them bright and prevent mushiness.

Can I use leftover ham from a holiday dinner?

Definitely. This casserole is a perfect way to repurpose leftover ham, giving it new life in a delicious and comforting dinner.

Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole: Comfort Food Made Easy Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 101 reviews

This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate midweek comfort meal that combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheddar cheese in a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish. Slow-cooked to perfection, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand and delivers a cozy, hearty dinner that’s versatile, fuss-free, and packed with nostalgic warmth.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes and Ham

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
• 3 cups diced ham (leftover or ham steak, bite-sized pieces)
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Dairy

• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter option)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping

Seasonings and Garnish

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas (optional, for color and extra veggies)

Instructions

1. Prep potatoes: Rinse, peel, and slice the russet potatoes about a quarter inch thick. This ensures even cooking and softness in the middle.
2. Layer ingredients: Place half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle half of the diced ham and chopped onions evenly over the potatoes. Scatter half of the minced garlic, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Repeat layers: Add another layer with the remaining potatoes, ham, onions, and garlic. Press down gently to help create an even casserole.
4. Add liquids: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the layers, then drizzle the cream or milk on top to keep the dish moist and creamy as it cooks.
5. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Add cheese topping: About 10 minutes before serving, uncover and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Allow it to melt and turn golden.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the melted cheese for a fresh herbal note and visual appeal. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Notes

• Peel and slice potatoes a day ahead; store them submerged in water in the fridge to reduce prep time on cooking day.
• Pre-chop ham and aromatics, storing them in labeled bags for easy assembly.
• Pre-measure spices and cheese into containers to streamline the cooking process.
• Use a crockpot liner or spray the crockpot with nonstick spray for effortless cleanup.
• You can swap heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter texture or vice versa for richness.
• Frozen vegetables can be added 30 minutes before the end of cooking to retain their texture and color.
• Leftover casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in microwave or under a broiler for a crispy top.

Keywords: crockpot ham casserole, slow cooker potato casserole, ham and cheese casserole, easy comfort food, one pot dinner