Name: Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-494503H53M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can cream of celery soup (undiluted); 1 cup half-and-half; 2 ½ pounds red potatoes (cut into 1/4 inch slices); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ white onion (diced); 2 cups fully cooked ham (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded); Green onions

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Slow Cooker Creamy Ham and Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. Imagine returning home after a long day, greeted by the fragrant aroma of savory ham amalgamating with tender potatoes, enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a chilly autumn evening when friends gathered around for a relaxing potluck. We spent hours catching up over laughter and hearty servings of this delightful meal. Every bite is a blend of nostalgia and satisfaction, reminding me of simpler times spent with loved ones. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can experience this taste of warmth at home. Let’s dive into why this Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe will become a staple in your household!

Table of Contents

Why This Is The Best Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
Tips for Success
Serve It With
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Recipe FAQs
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Why This Is The Best Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this recipe; it’s simple, requiring only about 15 minutes of prep time. Once the ingredients are in the slow cooker, set it, and essentially forget it while you go about your day. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both hearty and comforting. Each serving is vibrant with the creamy texture of potatoes, the savory flavor of ham, and the gooey goodness of cheese, making it eye-catching and utterly irresistible. Be it a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a cozy weekend meal, this dish fits any occasion. Plus, it’s an easy way to use leftover ham while remaining adaptable to suit various dietary needs.

Pin this for later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 can cream of celery soup (undiluted): This creamy base enriches the sauce, providing depth and flavor. If you prefer a different flavor, cream of mushroom or chicken can work as a substitute.
1 cup half-and-half: This gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture. You can use milk for a lighter version or even non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
2 ½ pounds red potatoes (cut into 1/4 inch slices): Red potatoes hold their shape well when cooked, contributing a lovely texture. Yukon gold potatoes could also be a great alternative.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that enhances the savory flavor profile. Fresh thyme can be used, though you’d need to double the amount.
½ white onion (diced): Onions add a savory sweetness. You could swap in shallots for a milder taste.
2 cups fully cooked ham (cut into bite-sized pieces): The star of the dish! Smoked or honey-glazed ham works wonderfully. For a leaner option, turkey ham is a nice alternative.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth. If you’re in a pinch, you can use about 1 teaspoon already minced garlic from a jar.
2 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded): This creamy cheese melts beautifully over the dish, making it cheesy perfection. Feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or Gouda for different flavors.
Green onions: Often used as a garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Whisk Together the Sauce

Start by taking a small bowl and adding the cream of celery soup along with the half-and-half. Whisk these two ingredients together until well combined and smooth. This creamy mixture is what elevates the dish, enveloping the ham and potatoes in indulgence. Setting this aside for later will keep the preparation organized and efficient.

Prepare and Layer the Potatoes

Rinse your red potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel and proceed to slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. This thickness ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture. In your slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes first, followed by half of the diced ham, dried thyme, minced onion, and garlic. This method of layering helps the flavors seep through each level of the dish, allowing every bite to be equally scrumptious.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Next, drizzle half of your creamy mixture over the layered potatoes and ham. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over this layer, allowing it to melt and mingle during cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and other ingredients, but leave out the remaining cheese visually for later. This method of layering builds flavors nicely and ensures even cooking throughout.

Cook Until Tender

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours. After this time, the potatoes should become fork-tender. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to blend beautifully while the potatoes absorb the savory ham essence. There’s nothing quite like lifting the lid and smelling the fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Melt the Remaining Cheese

Once the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to add the final touch. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, re-cover, and cook for another 10 minutes on low. This final melting step creates a gooey cheese layer that binds all the flavors together and adds a luscious finish.

Rest and Garnish

After the additional cooking time, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for about 10-15 minutes. This rest period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes for easier serving. When ready, garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of flavor and color. Serve this hearty dish warm, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household!

Tips for Success

Avoid cutting the potatoes too thick; aim for uniform 1/4 inch slices for even cooking.
Layer ingredients precisely as mentioned to ensure proper flavor distribution.
If using fresh herbs, adjust the amount, as they are more potent than dried ones.
For an extra flavor boost, consider browning the ham slightly in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours for food safety.

Serve It With

To make your meal complete, consider serving this dish alongside a crisp side salad or some steamed green beans. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes beautifully. For a more festive touch, pair it with freshly baked crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce. Don’t forget a glass of iced tea or a sparkling beverage to round out your meal!

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

Room Temperature: Allow food to cool down to room temperature before storing, but don’t leave it out for more than two hours.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, cool the dish completely, then freeze it in a secure airtight container or freezer bags for up to three months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave in intervals, stirring in between.
Quality Notes: The texture may change slightly when reheating, but a quick stir can refresh the creaminess.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh potatoes are recommended for their taste and texture. Just be sure to cut them evenly to promote uniform cooking.

How can I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the cream of celery soup with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure your ham doesn’t contain any gluten additives.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or even broccoli to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might slightly change depending on the added ingredients.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into individual servings after cooking, and store them in separate containers.

In a nutshell, this Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort all in one dish. It warms not just your body but also your heart with each bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish guarantees satisfaction and joy. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and flavors, making it your own creation. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—enjoy every delicious moment!

More Dinner Recipes

👉 If you make my Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.