There’s something uniquely comforting about the scent of creamy scalloped potatoes wafting through the kitchen, especially on a chilly evening. I found myself craving that familiar warmth after a busy week, and what better way to satisfy it than with my Easy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham? With just a handful of ingredients and almost no hands-on time, this dish transforms into a hearty meal that feeds both the stomach and the soul.
As the layers of tender potatoes meld with savory ham and rich cheese in the slow cooker, you’ll discover how simple it is to create an impressive dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe promises to be a hit with family and friends alike. Let’s dive into a world of flavor and comfort that will make your taste buds dance!
Why will you love Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Creamy Comfort: Each layer of tender potatoes is beautifully infused with the richness of cheese and hearty pieces of ham, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a comforting dish that slow cooks while you focus on other tasks or enjoy some downtime.
Family Favorite: This recipe is sure to become a staple in your household, appealing to both kids and adults with its deliciously familiar flavors.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize this dish by incorporating different vegetables, cheeses, or alternative proteins based on what you have available.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests without the stress—this dish is ideal for potlucks and holiday dinners, generating rave reviews without hours in the kitchen!
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Russet Potatoes – The backbone of this dish, providing structure and a creamy texture; substitute with Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor throughout the dish; it helps season the potatoes perfectly.
• Yellow Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; you can swap it out for red or white onion if desired.
For the Protein
• Cooked Ham – The primary protein source, infusing heartiness into the dish; feel free to replace it with smoked sausage for a different taste.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers richness and depth of flavor; consider using mozzarella or Monterey Jack as alternatives.
• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – Forms a creamy sauce base brimming with flavor; replace with a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth for a homemade touch.
• Milk – Combines with the soup to create that luscious texture; for lactose-free options, almond or soy milk works well.
For the Seasoning
• Fresh Thyme – Infuses a delightful herby freshness; oregano or rosemary can be used to switch up the flavors.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
For Cooking & Garnishing
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray – A quick way to prevent sticking, ensuring easy cleanup.
• Green Onion – An optional garnish that adds a fresh pop of color; fresh parsley is a great substitute if preferred.
Enjoy crafting your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham dish with these fresh ingredients!
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
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Grease: Start by greasing the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
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Toss: Gently toss the sliced Russet potatoes with kosher salt in a bowl, ensuring every piece is coated for enhanced flavor throughout.
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Layer: Layer half of the potatoes, yellow onion slices, cooked ham, and chopped sharp cheddar cheese in the slow cooker. This builds a rich foundation of taste and texture.
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Repeat: Add the remaining half of the ingredients in another layer of potatoes, onion, ham, and cheese. This repetition creates a hearty and flavorful dish.
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Mix: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, fresh thyme, and ground black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the Crockpot.
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Cook: Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 6-8 hours. Check for doneness when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Cool: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving; this will help thicken the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a delightful touch.
Optional: Serve with a crisp side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Uniform Slices: Ensure potato slices are uniform for even cooking; a mandoline can make this task quick and easy.
- Flavor Boost: Consider combining cooked ham with smoked sausage for an extra kick of flavor in your scalloped potatoes and ham.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken and enhance the overall texture.
- Avoid Freezing: Avoid freezing leftovers to maintain the creamy texture; instead, gently reheat in the oven for the best results.
Variations & Substitutions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Feel free to get creative and tweak this recipe to match your taste buds—you’ll love how customizable it is!
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Cheese Swap: Mix in Gruyère or Pepper Jack for an exciting twist on flavor and creaminess.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in carrots, peas, or even spinach to add color, nutrition, and texture to your dish.
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Potato Variety: Try using sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness, just adjust the cooking times slightly for even results.
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Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that complements the creamy goodness.
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Herb Infusion: Switch fresh thyme for a mix of herbs like dill and basil, giving your dish a fragrant, aromatic lift.
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Protein Change: Swap out cooked ham for shredded rotisserie chicken or even crispy bacon for a deliciously different take!
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Lighter Option: Use low-fat cheese and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup to enjoy a lighter version that still retains creamy flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make a homemade equivalent with gluten-free ingredients for a safe, delicious twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! To prep in advance, you can slice your Russet potatoes and toss them with salt up to 24 hours before cooking; store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can layer the potatoes, onions, ham, and cheese in the Crockpot and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply prepare the creamy mixture of soup and milk, pour it over the layers, and set your slow cooker to cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 6-8 hours. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, comforting scalloped potatoes with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing scalloped potatoes and ham to preserve their creamy texture, but if necessary, you can freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This method helps retain the creamy consistency of the dish.
Leftover Tips: When reheating, you may add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture and creaminess if it seems dry.
What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Indulge in a complete meal experience that perfectly pairs with the warming comfort of your creamy scalloped potatoes.
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Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness that complements the richness of the dish.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any extra creamy sauce from the scalloped potatoes!
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Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans bring a crunchy texture and a splash of color, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal while balancing the hearty flavors.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Earthy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add both depth and a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth potatoes.
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Buttered Corn: Sweet, buttery corn is a classic pairing, providing a sweet contrast to the savory ham and creamy potatoes, making it a family favorite.
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Apple Sauce: The subtle sweetness of homemade or store-bought apple sauce cuts through the richness and offers a nostalgic touch to your plate.
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Classic Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and tanginess, making it an excellent side to balance out the heavier flavors of the scalloped potatoes and ham.
Elevate your dining experience with these delicious accompaniments, and enjoy sharing warmth and comfort around the table!
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, I recommend using Russet potatoes as they provide a great structure and creamy texture when cooked. If you prefer a richer flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes are also a fantastic alternative. Just ensure that your potato slices are uniform in thickness to promote even cooking throughout.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store any leftovers of your scalloped potatoes and ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s always a good idea to let them cool completely before storing to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the oven at around 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a little splash of milk if it seems dry!
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes and ham?
While it’s best not to freeze scalloped potatoes to maintain their creamy texture, they can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months if necessary. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently in the oven.
What should I do if my potatoes are still hard after cooking?
Very! If you find that your scalloped potatoes are still hard after cooking, check the thickness of your slices; they may need to be cut thinner for better cooking. If they are thick, simply cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to an hour until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Always keep the lid on to retain moisture while cooking!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For those with lactose intolerance, you can substitute the milk with almond or soy milk, and replace the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a mixture of heavy cream and chicken broth for a lactose-free version. If there are allergies to certain ingredients, always check labels and consider using alternative proteins like turkey ham or plant-based options for a inclusive dish that everyone can enjoy!
Can I add vegetables to the scalloped potatoes and ham?
Yes! Feel free to mix in vegetables like peas or carrots to the layers; they not only add color and nutrition but also a lovely textural contrast. Just make sure to keep the vegetables sliced similarly to the potatoes for even cooking. It’s a delicious way to enhance your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham!
Savory Scalloped Potatoes and Ham for Effortless Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Toss the sliced Russet potatoes with kosher salt in a bowl, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Layer half of the potatoes, onion slices, cooked ham, and sharp cheddar cheese in the slow cooker.
- Repeat with the remaining half of the ingredients, creating another layer.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, fresh thyme, and ground black pepper. Pour evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving; garnish with chopped green onions.