Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole in the Slow Cooker
This comforting and creamy casserole is loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, and plenty of cheese. It’s an easy slow-cooker recipe perfect for busy days, family dinners, or potlucks.
Ingredients Overview
2 lbs of potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced:
Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
1 lb cooked ham, diced:
Perfect for using up leftover ham or buying pre-cooked ham from the store.
1 onion, diced:
Adds flavor and a bit of sweetness to the dish.
1 can of cream of mushroom soup:
Provides a creamy base for the casserole.
1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese:
Adds a cheesy goodness that melts beautifully.
1/2 cup of chicken broth:
Thins the soup mixture slightly, allowing the potatoes to cook evenly.
Salt and pepper to taste:
Enhances all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth until well combined.
Layer the Ingredients:
Begin by layering half of the potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by half of the diced ham, and then half of the diced onion.
Add the Soup and Cheese:
Pour half of the soup mixture over the layered ingredients, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, onion, soup mixture, and cheese.
Cook in the Slow Cooker:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the casserole is fully cooked, give it a gentle stir before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Use a Mandoline to Slice Potatoes Evenly:
This ensures that the potatoes cook uniformly.
Add Extra Vegetables:
You can include peas, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Try Different Cheeses:
Mix in some mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor combination.
Use Leftover Holiday Ham:
If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal, this is a perfect way to use it up.
Avoid Pre-Shredded Cheese:
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerating Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating:
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used as substitutes for cream of mushroom.
2. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?
Absolutely, sauté some fresh mushrooms and mix them with cream or milk to make a homemade creamy sauce.
3. What kind of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold also works well for a creamier consistency.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients the night before, store the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator, and start cooking it the next day.
Additional Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Add some garlic or onion powder to the soup mixture for extra flavor.
Top the casserole with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Use leftover cooked potatoes if you have them, but reduce the cooking time slightly.
Add a bit of Dijon mustard to the soup mixture for a tangy flavor.
Sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a crunchy texture.
