Remember those evenings when the aroma of a home-cooked meal would drift through the house, a warm invitation to gather around the table? Those moments, filled with simple joys and comforting flavors, often feel like distant memories in the hustle and bustle of modern life. But what if you could easily recapture that heartwarming feeling without spending hours slaving over a hot stove? What if you could create a meal that practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to savor those precious moments? Enter the magic of the crock pot, and the utterly delightful dish of scalloped ham and potatoes. This is not just another recipe; it’s your ticket to a hassle-free, taste-bud-tantalizing meal that will have you coming back for more, time and time again.
Why Choose a Crock Pot for Your Scalloped Ham and Potatoes?
You might be wondering, why a crock pot? Why not the oven, or a skillet? Well, there are several compelling reasons why this humble kitchen appliance is your best friend when making your scalloped ham and potatoes.
First and foremost is convenience. Imagine being able to put all your ingredients into one pot, set it, and then walk away, knowing that in a few hours, a delicious meal will be ready for you. No constant stirring, no temperature monitoring, just pure, unadulterated convenience. This makes the crock pot a game-changer, especially during busy weeknights when you are juggling work, family, and everything else.
Secondly, the crock pot offers even cooking. The low and slow method ensures that your potatoes are cooked perfectly through, becoming tender and creamy, without any hard or undercooked pieces. This uniform cooking is often hard to achieve in an oven, where hot spots can lead to unevenly cooked food.
Furthermore, slow cooking really allows for the flavor development of all of the ingredients. The extended cooking time means the flavors of the ham, cheese, and seasonings meld together beautifully, creating a symphony of tastes that are far superior to those achieved with quicker methods. The gentle heat also ensures that the dairy doesn’t curdle, leading to a smooth and velvety sauce.
And finally, it’s all about minimal effort. You can prepare this meal with very little fuss. Once everything is layered in the crock pot, your work is done! You can then spend your time catching up with loved ones, pursuing your hobbies, or simply relaxing, instead of being tied to the kitchen. Numerous studies have shown the value of home-cooked meals for your overall well-being, and this method makes that goal so much easier to reach.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crock Pot Scalloped Ham and Potatoes
Before we dive into the method, let’s talk about what you’ll need. Gathering quality ingredients is vital to creating the most delicious dish you can, and it can often be the secret to a truly amazing meal. Here is what you will need:
Table: Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Potatoes | 5-6 medium | Russet or Yukon gold, sliced thinly |
| Cooked Ham | 2 cups | Cubed or diced |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | Sharp or mild, your preference |
| Milk or Cream | 2 cups | Whole milk for richness, or use half and half |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Unsalted |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 tablespoons | for thickening |
| Onion | 1 medium | Optional, finely chopped |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Or to taste |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Or to taste |
| Paprika (Optional) | 1/2 teaspoon | For color and mild flavor |
Potatoes for Slow Cooker Scalloped Ham and Potatoes
For this recipe, you can use either russet or Yukon gold potatoes. Both work well, but I would advise using russets if you like a softer texture, and Yukon golds if you want something that is a little firmer. Make sure you slice your potatoes thinly, as this ensures they cook evenly and absorb all of that delicious sauce.
Ham for Your Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
The star of the show alongside our potatoes. Leftover ham from a holiday feast works perfectly, or you can buy a pre-cooked ham steak from your local grocery store. The key here is to cut the ham into cubes or dice them, so they are easy to spread evenly throughout your dish.
Cheeses for the Best Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
You are really free to choose your favourite cheese here. I prefer a sharp cheddar, but you could also use a mild cheddar, a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even Gruyere if you fancy a more sophisticated flavour profile. Choose the cheese that best suits your taste buds.
Dairy for Creamy Crock Pot Scalloped Ham and Potatoes
The milk or cream gives the sauce its creaminess and richness. I advise using whole milk for a richer taste, but half-and-half will also work fine. You could even use a combination of milk and cream if that’s what you have.
Seasonings for Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
A simple mix of salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika works best here. But you can also experiment with other seasonings to suit your taste. I have used garlic powder, onion powder, or even a little bit of nutmeg in the past. Be as creative as you wish!
The Roux: Key for Creamy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
These are the base of your creamy sauce. They help thicken the sauce and add a lovely richness. A simple roux of butter and flour is all you need.
Optional additions for Ham and Potatoes in a Crock Pot
They are entirely optional, but I like adding a little bit of finely chopped onion to the recipe to add more depth of flavour to the dish.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Slow Cooker Scalloped Ham and Potatoes
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get started on the fun part – assembling and cooking this delightful dish. Here is your step-by-step guide to the best scalloped ham and potatoes:
- Prep the Vegetables: Start by washing your potatoes and slicing them thinly. You can use a mandoline for this to ensure that the slices are uniform. Next, finely chop your onion (if you’re using it). Cube or dice your cooked ham. Having everything prepped and ready will help make the layering process run much more smoothly.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, and cook for about one minute until a paste forms – this is your roux. Slowly whisk in the milk or cream, and continue to whisk until the sauce starts to thicken. This will take about 2–3 minutes. Add your salt and pepper and remove the sauce from the heat.
Layering and Cooking Your Crock Pot Scalloped Ham & Potatoes
- Start Layering: Lightly grease the bottom of your crock pot. This prevents the potatoes from sticking. Begin layering the potato slices at the bottom of the pot, slightly overlapping them. You do not need to be perfectly neat; just lay them so they mostly cover the base. Sprinkle a little bit of salt and pepper over the potatoes.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Spread about half of the ham evenly over the potato layer, followed by around a third of the cheese. If you’re using the onions, scatter half of it over the ham.
- Repeat the Layers: Continue to layer, starting with another layer of potatoes, and adding seasoning, then the remaining ham and onions and another one-third of the cheese. End with a final layer of potatoes.
- Pour the Sauce: Gently pour the prepared milk/cream sauce evenly over the final layer of potatoes. Make sure that the sauce covers most of the potatoes to help promote that even cooking that we want.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. This cheese layer on top will melt and bubble up beautifully during cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your crock pot model, but using a fork or a knife to test the potatoes for tenderness is your best bet.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve and even more delicious.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Ham and Potatoes
Creating a truly amazing dish is all in the details, and these are a few tips and tricks that will take your scalloped ham and potatoes to the next level.
Slicing the Potatoes for Crock Pot Ham and Potato Dinner
- Use a mandoline slicer: Using a mandoline for slicing your potatoes will help you create thin, consistent slices, ensuring that they cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce.
Getting the Right Amount of Sauce for Your Crock Pot Ham and Potato Casserole
- Don’t be shy with the sauce: Make sure that there is enough sauce to cover the potatoes. This is crucial for achieving that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this dish so addictive.
Adding Herbs and Spices to Your Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
- Spice it up: While salt, pepper, and paprika work well here, you can certainly experiment with other herbs and spices to find your perfect flavour. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of nutmeg in the sauce can add a new layer of flavour to this already mouth-watering dish.
Choosing the Best Dairy for Your Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
- The dairy matters: For the richest flavour, I recommend using whole milk or cream. However, half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream will still work well if you prefer.
Adding a Crispy Topping to your Crock Pot Ham and Potato meal
- Crispy topping: If you want a crispy top, try sprinkling some breadcrumbs or panko crumbs mixed with melted butter over the top of your dish in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How To Avoid Overcooking Your Scalloped Ham And Potatoes In The Crock Pot
- Don’t overcook: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. It’s better to err on the side of undercooking a little bit, as the potatoes will continue to cook slightly when you allow the dish to sit for a short time before serving.
Cheese Recommendations For Slow Cooker Ham And Potato
- Use a high quality cheese: A sharp cheddar is really great, but it also has a tendency to melt better than some other types of cheese. Consider this, if you are looking for the most bubbly texture.
Choosing Low Sodium Ham For Your Crock Pot Recipe
- Use low sodium ham: Make sure to check the salt content of your ham. If it’s high in sodium, reduce the amount of salt in the sauce.
The Best Slow Cooker For Your Scalloped Potatoes And Ham
- The right pot: Use a crock pot that suits the recipe. You don’t want a huge pot for a small recipe, as this can affect cooking times.
Serving and Storing Your Slow Cooker Scalloped Ham and Potato Dish
Your scalloped ham and potatoes are now ready, so what is the best way to serve them? Here are some serving and storage tips for when you make this amazing dish:
- Complementary Side Dishes: This dish is very rich and filling on its own. However, it pairs well with some lighter side dishes. Try serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or some roasted asparagus to add balance and extra nutrients to your meal. A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette is always a good idea.
- Garnishes: Before serving you can top the dish with some chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream. These not only add visual appeal, but also add fresh flavours.
- Storing leftovers: To store the leftovers, let them cool and put them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s always a great lunch idea.
- Reheating: Reheat your leftover scalloped ham and potatoes in the microwave, or in the oven until heated through. Add a little bit of milk or cream if they have dried out a little bit. When reheating in the oven, cover them with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scalloped Ham and Potatoes in the Crock Pot
Below are some commonly asked questions about making scalloped ham and potatoes in a slow cooker:
Using Different Potatoes For Crock Pot Ham And Potato
Q1: Can I use different types of potatoes for this scalloped ham and potatoes in the crock pot recipe?
- A1: Yes, you can! While russet or Yukon gold are popular choices, you can experiment with other types of potatoes, as well. But, please ensure they are sliced thinly for even cooking. Russets will give you a softer texture, whereas Yukon golds will have a firmer texture.
How To Prevent Sticking For Your Crockpot Ham And Potatoes
Q2: How do I prevent my scalloped ham and potatoes in the crock pot from sticking to the sides?
- A2: Lightly greasing the crock pot before adding the ingredients is the most important thing you need to do here. You can also use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.
Adding Veggies to Your Scalloped Ham and Potatoes in the Slow Cooker
Q3: Can I add any other vegetables to my scalloped ham and potatoes in the crock pot?
- A3: Absolutely! Sautéed onions or sliced bell peppers are both great options that will add flavour and nutrients. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach. Add them in layers with the ham and potatoes.
Making Crock Pot Ham and Potato Recipes Ahead of Time
Q4: Can I make scalloped ham and potatoes in the crock pot ahead of time?
- A4: Yes, you can assemble the ingredients and keep them in the fridge overnight, then slow cook the next day. The potatoes may darken slightly in color but it will not affect the taste. If you are worried about this, put the sliced potatoes in some water in a bowl in the fridge. This can help prevent discolouration.
Freezing Leftover Scalloped Ham and Potato in your Slow Cooker
Q5: Can I freeze the leftover scalloped ham and potatoes in the crock pot?
- A5: Yes, you can freeze leftover in an air-tight container for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. If you find that the potatoes change texture slightly after freezing, it’s because of the high water content. But they will still taste delicious.
Conclusion
Making Scalloped Ham and Potatoes in the Crock Pot is a real game changer. It allows you to have a delicious, comforting meal with very minimal effort. This is the type of dish that can be served at a family get together, or on a busy weeknight with the family. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that is warm and delightful, and that will leave everyone asking for more.
Now it’s your turn! Why not try out this recipe and experience the pure joy of creating this warm, comforting dish? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to experience the flavour explosion. This recipe is a gateway to creating simple joy in your life, without the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen. Let me know how it goes. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and make a dish that you will be talking about for days!