Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s effortlessly delicious, you’re going to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe. I absolutely love how the layers of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheese come together after slow cooking all day, making dinner a breeze. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through exactly how to get it just right!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe comes from fresh and simple ingredients working in harmony. Using Yukon gold potatoes really makes a difference in texture, and combining two different cream soups gives the sauce depth and that irresistible creaminess.

• Yukon gold potatoes: These hold their shape well and have a buttery flavor perfect for scalloped potatoes.
• Cooked ham: Diced ham adds savory richness — your choice of leftover or store-bought ham works great.
• Cream of celery soup: Brings subtle veggie undertones and creamy texture to the sauce.
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds wholesomeness and rounds out the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Sour cream: Gives the sauce tang and silkiness I can’t get enough of.
• Yellow onion: Diced finely so it softens and sweetens the dish as it cooks.
• Garlic: Minced garlic boosts that cozy, savory vibe.
• Paprika: Adds a slight smoky warmth without overpowering.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked gives a little kick that balances the creaminess.
• Dried thyme: This herb layers in subtle earthiness.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty cheddar is the star for that golden cheesy top and flavor punch.

Variations

I like to mix things up with this Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand—feel free to make it your own!

• Swap the Ham: When I tried turkey instead of ham, it gave a lighter twist that my family also enjoyed on a busy weeknight.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and add layers of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty meatless meal.
• Cheese Choices: Experimenting with gruyere or gouda adds a different richness that’s delicious if you want to impress guests.
• Spice It Up: Adding a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne gave this recipe a spicy edge I loved for a cozy dinner.

How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes and Ham

Start by thinly slicing your Yukon gold potatoes. I highly recommend using a mandoline if you have one—it makes the slices even and consistent, so they cook perfectly in the slow cooker. Dice your cooked ham into bite-sized chunks, and set both aside.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, thyme, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it all up until smooth and creamy. This sauce is where all that comforting flavor builds, so make sure it’s well mixed.

Step 3: Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker

Spray the bottom of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray—that little step saves you a world of trouble cleaning up later. Lay half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom, then sprinkle half the ham over them. Next, spread half of your cheese sauce on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce to create a second layer.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and set your slow cooker to high for 5 to 6 hours. The slow, gentle heat lets the potatoes become tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Ten minutes before cooking ends, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and cover again to let it melt into a dreamy, cheesy crust.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives—it adds a pop of color and a fresh note that brightens the richness. If you want an extra touch, a little cracked black pepper on top makes it look and taste even better.

Side Dishes

To balance out the creamy potatoes and ham, I usually serve it with a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted Brussels sprouts. A crisp, fresh vegetable side really complements the comforting richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to prepare individual portions in mini slow cookers or ramekins for guests — it feels fancy but stays totally cozy and casual. You can also build the layers into a casserole dish and broil the cheese topping at the end for a golden, bubbly finish that wows at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully—just let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always find the flavors deepen overnight, making the next meal even tastier.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish successfully by assembling everything, then wrapping tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing. When it comes time to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently in the oven or slow cooker. Cheese texture is best fresh, but the flavors hold up well.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture, about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. I avoid the microwave if I want to keep that creamy texture intact without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it combines convenience with that nostalgic homemade comfort. Whenever I make it, the warm aromas instantly remind me of family dinners and sharing good times. I hope you’ll give it a try and find it as satisfying and easy as I do—it really feels like a big delicious hug on a plate!

Print