Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. With tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this one-pot meal is simple to prepare and delivers comforting flavors that everyone will love. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy, hands-off meal. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon gold or russet work well)
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Layer Potatoes and Ham: In the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot, place the diced potatoes and diced ham.
- Add Onion: Sprinkle the chopped onion over the potatoes and ham.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour Over Potatoes and Ham: Pour the sauce mixture over the potatoes, ham, and onion in the crockpot, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Cook
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for later.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Add Remaining Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let it melt.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Potato Size: Make sure the potatoes are cut into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
- Cream of Chicken Substitute: You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add frozen peas or chopped broccoli to the crockpot for added vegetables and color.
- Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a little heat.
- Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top just before serving for extra smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Dinner Rolls: Pair with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans make a great side dish to complement the casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Potatoes?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked potatoes, but reduce the cooking time by 1-2 hours to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ingredients in the crockpot the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply place the crockpot on and cook as directed.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
You can freeze this casserole, but the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after thawing. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. With tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Just set it up in your crockpot, let it cook, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Gather your ingredients, plug in your crockpot, and let the magic happen!
Happy Cooking!