Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole: A Comforting Slow Cooker Favorite
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cheesy Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal-prepping, this hearty dish blends tender potatoes, smoky ham, and creamy cheese sauce into one irresistible meal. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory experience.
This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover ham, making it both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. The simple, no-fuss preparation means minimal hands-on work while the Crockpot does all the magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy home-cooked meal, this easy ham and potato casserole is sure to become a staple in your household.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A balance of smoky ham, creamy cheese sauce, and savory seasonings.
- Texture: Tender potatoes complemented by a creamy sauce and a slightly crispy top layer.
- Aroma: A heartwarming blend of melted cheese, savory ham, and slow-cooked potatoes.
- Visual Appeal: A golden, cheesy glaze atop layers of soft, flavorful potatoes and ham.
- Skill Level Needed: Suitable for beginners with minimal preparation and hands-free cooking.
- Special Equipment: A slow cooker (Crockpot) for even cooking and effortless results.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Simple – just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the rest.
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Cuisine: American comfort food with Southern influences.
- Cost: Budget-friendly as it utilizes basic pantry ingredients and leftover ham.
- Season: Best enjoyed in colder months, but great year-round for meal prepping.
- Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, holiday meals, and make-ahead lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole offers an unbeatable combination of creamy, cheesy comfort with smoky ham and tender potatoes. Every bite is filled with robust flavor, making it a family favorite.
Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is incredibly convenient. With just a few minutes of prep time, the slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy schedules. Set it in the morning and come home to an amazing home-cooked meal.
This dish is also budget-friendly. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham and stretches easily to feed a crowd. Plus, potatoes are an affordable, hearty ingredient that provides great nutritional value.
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this ham and potato casserole is a surefire hit. Serve it as a main course with a side salad, or pair it with your holiday spread for an unforgettable side dish.
Lastly, the versatility of this recipe makes it even more appealing. You can swap ingredients based on what you have, eliminating food waste while keeping it delicious.
The Recipe
Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon parsley
Directions
- Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the Crockpot.
- Add half of the diced ham, followed by half of the diced onions.
- Sprinkle ¾ cup of shredded cheese over the top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and parsley.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Recipe Notes
- For a crispier top layer, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 5 minutes before serving.
- Use leftover holiday ham for a smoky, rich flavor.
- Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.