Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
This creamy crockpot ham & potatoes recipe is a delectable and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Packed with comforting flavors, it combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese to create a meal that will satisfy the whole family. If you’re looking for a simple, delicious recipe to whip up in your slow cooker, you’re in the right place!
Why Make This Recipe
One of the best reasons to make creamy crockpot ham & potatoes is its incredible convenience. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, let it do the work, and before you know it, you have a warming meal ready to be served. This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover ham, transforming it into a comforting and creamy dish that’s great for lunch or dinner. Furthermore, this dish doesn’t just deliver on flavor; it also offers wholesome ingredients that the whole family can enjoy.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
Making creamy crockpot ham & potatoes is easier than you might think! Below is a detailed guide on how to prepare this delicious meal, along with the necessary ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and sliced (Yukon gold or russet)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions
- Layer the potatoes, ham, and onion in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper until combined. Pour over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue cooking until melted. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best due to their creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t break down as nicely.
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Pre-cooked Ham: Use leftover or pre-cooked ham for best results. It adds flavor and saves cooking time since the ham only needs to be warmed up.
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Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheddar and another cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. It adds depth to the dish.
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Layering is Key: Make sure to layer your ingredients evenly in the crockpot. This allows for the best distribution of flavors and ensures everything cooks evenly.
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Adjust Seasoning: After the dish is done cooking, taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
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Add Vegetables: Consider adding frozen peas or corn for added color and nutrition about an hour before serving.
Flavor Variations Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
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Cheesy Bacon Version: Add cooked, crumbled bacon along with the ham for an extra smoky flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a slight heat.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with smoked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist that still packs a punch.
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Herb Infusion: Add rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor that pairs well with the creaminess.
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Broccoli Add-in: Toss in some frozen or fresh broccoli florets for added nutrition and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
Creamy crockpot ham & potatoes is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans for a well-rounded meal. Another great idea is to have warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
If you have leftovers (which is quite likely since this dish is so delicious), allow it to cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra milk to help regain its creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|———-|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQ About Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
Can I use raw ham in this recipe?
While raw ham can be used, it will require additional cooking time and may not yield the same creamy texture. It’s best to use precooked ham for optimal results.
What type of cheese can I use?
While cheddar is a popular choice, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a pepper jack can add unique flavors to your dish.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can layer your ingredients in the crockpot insert and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Just take it out in the morning and set it to cook!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this creamy crockpot ham & potatoes gluten-free, ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, or you can make your own!
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans, and crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done cooking when they are fork-tender. You can easily test this by inserting a fork into the potatoes; they should break apart easily.
Final Thoughts
Creamy crockpot ham & potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With its simple and flavorful ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays or even for entertaining guests on the weekends. The ease of preparation and the comforting flavors make it a must-try for any home cook. So why not gather your ingredients and let the crockpot work its magic? You won’t be disappointed!
Print
Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delectable and hearty dish combining tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese, perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and sliced (Yukon gold or russet)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Layer the potatoes, ham, and onion in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper until combined. Pour over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue cooking until melted. Serve warm.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheddar and another cheese like Gruyère. Add frozen peas for color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
