Slow Cooker Ham Potatoes: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Slow Cooker Ham Potatoes: Is there anything more comforting than a hearty, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a medley of delicious seasonings wafting through your kitchen. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl!

The beauty of a dish like this lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of combining potatoes and ham has been a staple in many cultures for generations, particularly in regions where these ingredients were readily available. Think of the hearty stews and casseroles passed down through families, each with its own unique twist. This slow cooker ham potatoes recipe is a modern take on that classic comfort food.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes paired with the slightly salty and satisfying ham. The slow cooker method ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a depth of taste that’s hard to resist. Plus, let’s be honest, the convenience factor is a major draw. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this slow cooker ham potatoes recipe is guaranteed to be a winner.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1.5 lbs cooked ham, cubed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. First things first, let’s get those potatoes ready! Peel all 4 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. I prefer Yukon Golds because they hold their shape well during slow cooking and have a lovely creamy texture. But feel free to use Russets if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware they might get a little softer.
2. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Don’t worry about being perfect, though! We’re going for rustic charm here.
3. Next, grab that cooked ham. I like to use leftover holiday ham, but any cooked ham will do. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds. Cut the ham into cubes that are similar in size to the potato cubes. Again, uniformity is good, but not essential.
4. Now, let’s tackle the onion and garlic. Chop one large yellow onion into small pieces. You don’t want huge chunks of onion in your finished dish. Mince two cloves of garlic. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount or even omit it altogether. But I think it adds a nice depth of flavor.

Layering in the Slow Cooker:

1. Now comes the fun part: layering everything in the slow cooker! I recommend using a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for this recipe.
2. Start by placing half of the cubed potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a nice base layer.
3. Next, add half of the cubed ham on top of the potatoes.
4. Sprinkle half of the chopped onion and minced garlic over the ham.
5. Repeat the layers: the remaining potatoes, the remaining ham, and the remaining onion and garlic. Layering ensures that all the ingredients are evenly distributed and cook properly.

Adding the Liquid and Seasonings:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, melted butter, Dijon mustard, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful sauce that will coat the potatoes and ham as they cook.
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Make sure the sauce reaches all the way to the bottom of the slow cooker. If necessary, gently press down on the ingredients to help the sauce seep through.
3. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the potatoes and ham are coated with the sauce. Be careful not to over-stir, as you don’t want to break up the potatoes too much.

Slow Cooking Process:

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker, so it’s important to check for doneness periodically.
2. After the initial cooking time, check the potatoes for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork. If they’re not quite done, continue cooking for another hour or so, checking every 30 minutes.
3. Once the potatoes are tender, give everything a good stir. This will help to thicken the sauce and distribute the flavors.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

1. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes and ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will create a cheesy, gooey topping that’s absolutely delicious.
2. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
3. Serve the slow cooker ham and potatoes hot. This dish is perfect as a main course or as a hearty side dish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little bit of heat.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and layer them in with the potatoes and ham.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or oregano.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier dish, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Add bacon: Crispy bacon bits make a fantastic addition to this dish. Sprinkle them on top before serving.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a little extra chicken broth before cooking to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: While I generally prefer fresh, this dish can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of green beans or asparagus.
• Pair with a crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Top with a fried egg for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 20g

Enjoy your delicious and easy Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes! I hope you and your family love this recipe as much as mine does. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own! Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Slow Cooker Ham Potatoes recipe is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I know, I know, you might be thinking, “Potatoes in a slow cooker? Really?” But trust me on this one. The magic of the slow cooker transforms humble potatoes and savory ham into a creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious dish that the whole family will devour.

What makes this recipe a must-try? First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. The prep work is minimal – just chop, toss, and let the slow cooker do its thing. No babysitting required! Secondly, the flavor is phenomenal. The ham infuses the potatoes with a smoky, salty goodness that’s simply irresistible. And the creamy sauce? Oh, the creamy sauce! It’s rich, decadent, and perfectly coats every single bite. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a complete meal in itself.

But the best part? The versatility! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your own tastes and preferences. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Want to make it even creamier? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving. Looking for a vegetarian option? Simply omit the ham and add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers instead. The possibilities are endless!

Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

* Serve it as a hearty side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
* Make it a complete meal by adding a side salad and some crusty bread for dipping.
* Top it with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and visual appeal.
* For a potluck or party, keep it warm in the slow cooker and let your guests serve themselves.

And speaking of variations, consider these:

* Cheesy Ham Potatoes: Add a cup or two of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese during the last hour of cooking.
* Garlic Ham Potatoes: Add a few cloves of minced garlic along with the other ingredients for a more intense flavor.
* Spicy Ham Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
* Loaded Ham Potatoes: Top with bacon bits, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a truly decadent treat.

I truly believe that this Slow Cooker Ham Potatoes recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cold winter night, a potluck favorite, or a simple weeknight dinner.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do, please, please, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear how it turned out, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Slow Cooker Ham Potatoes success!