Creamy Crockpot Ham Potatoes

Creamy Crockpot Ham Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly creamy. This slow-cooked dish combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, cheesy sauce that melts together beautifully as it cooks. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, it’s one of those easy recipes that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how simple and satisfying this crockpot meal is. Just toss everything in, let it simmer for hours, and come back to a delicious, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dish. It’s also an excellent way to use leftover ham, reducing food waste while creating something special. The potatoes soak up the creamy sauce, while the ham adds just the right amount of saltiness and depth.

Nutritional Info

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it both filling and nourishing.

Time Taken

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups peeled and sliced potatoes (about 5 medium)
• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Ham
   Slice your potatoes into thin, even rounds. Dice your ham into small cubes and set both aside.
2. Mix the Sauce
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the soup, milk, garlic powder, pepper, and paprika until smooth. Stir in half of the cheese.
3. Layer in the Crockpot
   Grease the inside of your crockpot with butter or nonstick spray. Layer half of the potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the onion. Pour half of the sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining ingredients and finish with the rest of the sauce.
4. Cook Until Tender
   Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours until the potatoes are soft and fully cooked.
5. Add Cheese and Serve
   Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of cooking, letting it melt before serving. Garnish with parsley for color and freshness.

You Must Know

Avoid over-stirring during cooking as it may break the potatoes. For an even creamier result, use heavy cream instead of milk. You can also substitute part of the ham with cooked bacon or turkey for a different twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. Avoid freezing as the potatoes can become mushy after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Replace ham with cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for variation.
• Use cream of celery soup instead of mushroom for a lighter taste.
• Try Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy crockpot ham potatoes with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. It also pairs wonderfully with cornbread or warm dinner rolls. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted carrots or a light soup starter.

Cultural and Historical Context

Slow-cooked potato casseroles have deep roots in American home cooking, particularly in the Midwest, where crockpot meals became popular for their convenience. This version is a modern comfort food adaptation, blending classic creamy potato dishes with the ease of slow cooking.

Seasonal Adaptations

In winter, add herbs like thyme or rosemary for warmth. In spring, toss in peas or spinach for a fresh twist. During the holidays, this recipe makes a perfect side dish for ham or turkey dinners.

Success Stories

Home cooks rave about how this recipe brings families together. It’s especially popular for Sunday dinners, post-holiday meals, and even casual gatherings. Many love how rich and creamy it tastes despite the simple prep work.

Pro Tips

• Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
• Don’t open the crockpot lid too often; it releases heat and slows cooking.
• For a crispier finish, transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and broil for a few minutes.

Chef’s Special Tips

Mix in a small handful of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with the top layer of cheese for added texture. A touch of Dijon mustard in the sauce also enhances the flavor depth without overpowering it.

Conclusion

Creamy Crockpot Ham Potatoes is the ultimate slow-cooked comfort meal; warm, creamy, and packed with rich flavor. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s ideal for busy families who love hearty, homemade food. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your weeknight or holiday rotation.

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