Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Combining tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy sauce, this casserole is rich in flavor and texture. The slow cooker does all the work, making this dish an ideal option for weekday dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5-6 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best), peeled and sliced thin
- 2 cups diced ham (leftover ham or store-bought cooked ham)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
Equipment
- Crockpot/slow cooker (6-quart capacity recommended)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by preparing the main components of the casserole. Begin by peeling and slicing your potatoes. Make sure the slices are even and relatively thin, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly. You can use a mandoline for uniform slices if you have one available. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
Next, dice your onions and mince the garlic. These will add extra flavor to your casserole, giving it a depth that complements the creaminess of the dish.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, dried parsley (if using), and smoked paprika (if using). Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, creamy mixture. The cream of chicken soup provides the base of the sauce, while the sour cream and cheese contribute to its richness. The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that pairs well with the ham.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Now it’s time to layer your casserole. Grease the bottom and sides of your crockpot to prevent sticking. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom. Make sure to overlap the slices slightly to ensure even cooking. On top of the potatoes, sprinkle a layer of diced ham and onions.
Spoon some of the creamy sauce mixture over the ham and potatoes, spreading it evenly to cover them. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce until you’ve used up all your ingredients. Typically, you’ll end with the creamy sauce on top, ensuring that the potatoes will cook in the flavorful mixture.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The time will vary depending on the thickness of your potato slices and the strength of your slow cooker. You’ll know the casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden topping.
5. Optional Garnishes:
Once the casserole is fully cooked and the cheese on top is melted, you can add some optional garnishes to give the dish a fresh pop of flavor. Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top before serving. This adds color and a bit of sharpness to balance the rich, creamy flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a fresh, crisp salad to lighten up the meal, or pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for an extra hit of flavor and nutrients.
For a comforting, stick-to-your-ribs meal, you can serve it with a side of buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. The dish is filling enough to stand on its own, but you could also pair it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a warming, cozy meal.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole reheats well in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. The casserole also freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Customization Options
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is easy to customize based on your preferences:
- Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or broccoli for added nutrients and texture. Simply mix them in with the ham and onions.
- Meat: If you’re not a fan of ham, try substituting it with cooked bacon, sausage, or leftover chicken.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a true comfort food that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. It’s a fantastic option for those days when you need a fuss-free meal that’s both delicious and filling. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or making it for meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.