If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make dish, this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting a casual get-together, or just looking for a fuss-free recipe that delivers great flavor. This casserole is packed with savory ham, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce that’s simply irresistible.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole, provide nutritional information, answer common questions, and give you tips to make it your own. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste. The flavors of cheesy potatoes paired with salty ham make this dish a crowd-pleaser, and the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. Here’s why you’ll love this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole:
- Set It and Forget It: Simply assemble the ingredients, and the crockpot will handle the rest.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and easily adapted for potlucks or special occasions.
- Hearty and Comforting: The combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese is the ultimate comfort food.
- Great for Leftovers: Reheat for a quick and delicious meal throughout the week.
Ingredients for Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the simple yet delicious ingredients that make this dish so special. All of these components come together to create a hearty casserole that’s bursting with flavor.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced potatoes – Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are ideal for their texture and ability to hold up during slow cooking.
- 2 cups diced ham – You can use leftover ham, which adds a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and texture to balance the richness.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – The creamy base of the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly into the sauce, creating a cheesy delight.
- 1 cup milk – Thins the sauce and adds creaminess.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy creaminess that enhances the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic elevates the flavor, making it more savory and aromatic.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds just the right amount of heat and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Gives the casserole a slight smoky flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and freshness.
How to Make Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole. It’s simple to follow and guarantees a warm, hearty dish that everyone will love.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
First, dice your potatoes and ham, and chop the onion. Toss them together in a large bowl, ensuring they’re well mixed. This blend of starchy potatoes and salty ham forms the hearty base of your casserole.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated. This creamy sauce is key to the rich, cheesy flavor of the casserole.
3. 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, ensuring everything is coated. Then, add the remaining potato and ham mixture and top with the rest of the sauce.
4. Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender, and the dish is bubbling with cheesy goodness.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is cooked through, stir it gently to distribute the sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes and Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Casserole
Creating the perfect Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is easy, but with a few extra tips, you can elevate it even further:
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or russet, as they hold their shape during slow cooking. Avoid waxy varieties, as they can become too soft and mushy.
Ham Substitutions
If you don’t have ham, smoked sausage or leftover turkey are excellent substitutes. Each will bring a different flavor profile, but the result will be just as delicious.
Adding Veggies
Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. These additions will not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional content of the dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
Want to save time? Assemble the casserole the night before and store the crockpot insert in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place the insert back in the crockpot and set it to cook.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Ham and Potato Casserole not only tastes great but also provides a satisfying blend of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Here’s the full nutritional breakdown per serving:
Nutrition Details (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 450IU
- Calcium: 240mg
- Iron: 1.4mg
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
While this casserole is indulgent, it also offers some key nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for heart health and digestion.
- Ham provides protein and important nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, which support muscle health and energy levels.
- Cheddar cheese is rich in calcium and supports bone health, though it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.
FAQs
Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns can be used as a substitute for fresh potatoes. Just be aware that they may cook a little faster and could result in a slightly softer texture.
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply place it in the crockpot and cook as directed.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
This casserole pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. It’s also great on its own for a hearty meal.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect go-to recipe when you’re craving comfort food that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting fresh, this dish will impress your family and guests. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish filled with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, this easy-to-make meal is slow-cooked to perfection.
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet work best)
- 2 cups diced ham (leftover ham works like a charm)
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering your diced potatoes, ham, and finely chopped onions. In a large mixing bowl, toss them together. The combination of hearty potatoes and salty ham sets the foundation for this casserole.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This creamy sauce will coat the ham and potatoes, making the dish rich and flavorful. Be sure to stir it until everything is well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Now it’s time to assemble your casserole! Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This helps to prevent the ingredients from sticking. Add half of the potato and ham mixture to the bottom of the crockpot. Then, pour half of the sauce over the potatoes and ham, making sure everything is well coated. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients.
- Cook: Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender, and the whole dish is bubbly and hot.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s done cooking, give the casserole a gentle stir before serving. For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve it warm, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with family and friends!
Notes
- Potato Type: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold up well during the long cooking process. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can get too soft.
- Ham Substitute: If you don’t have leftover ham, smoked sausage or bacon are great alternatives. They’ll give the dish a slightly different flavor, but still delicious!
- Cheese Options: Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese with other types like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.
- Vegetables: Want to sneak in more veggies? Add diced carrots or peas into the mix for extra color and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot/Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Ham and Potato Casserole, Crockpot Potato Casserole, Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Recipe