Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chunks of ham with creamy, flavorful potatoes. This slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty weekend meal. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with little effort. The dish typically features layers of sliced potatoes, diced ham, and a creamy cheese sauce, all simmered together to create a satisfying and flavorful casserole.
Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
4 cups diced potatoes
2 cups diced ham
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, diced ham, and chopped onion.
Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Add half of the potato and ham mixture to the bottom of the crockpot. Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes and ham. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve:
Stir the casserole gently before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty and comforting Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high | Total Time: 6-7 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
Here are some variations and tips for making Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole:
Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Include vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Different Cheeses: Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a unique taste.
- Seasonings: Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Creamy Alternatives: Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for the cream of mushroom soup to make the dish lighter or add a tangy flavor.
- Protein Choices: Swap out the ham for cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage if you prefer.
Tips:
- Potato Preparation: Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. You can also pre-cook them slightly if you want a quicker cooking time.
- Layering: For best results, layer the ingredients in the crockpot rather than mixing them. This helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Cooking Time: Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your crockpot. Check for doneness by making sure the potatoes are tender.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overload the crockpot; it’s better to use a larger size if needed to allow for even cooking.
- Thickening Sauce: If the casserole is too liquidy, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to help reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.
Feel free to adjust these suggestions based on your preferences and dietary needs.
To store Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole:
- Cool First: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or use heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure the container is tightly sealed.
- Reheat: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Proper storage helps maintain the casserole’s flavor and texture.