When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as slow cooker scalloped potatoes. This creamy, cheesy recipe combines tender potatoes and savory ham, making it the perfect meal for family dinners or holidays. With the ease of a slow cooker, you can create a rich and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
Looking for the perfect dessert to pair with this hearty dish? Try these Earl Grey cookies for a light, aromatic finish to your meal.
Curious about the best types of potatoes to use? Check out this guide to potato varieties to ensure your dish turns out perfectly creamy.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Slow Cooker Convenience for Scalloped Potatoes
Using a slow cooker makes preparing cheesy scalloped potatoes with ham effortless, saving time and enhancing flavors.
A Hearty Dish for Any Occasion
This slow cooker comfort food recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prepping.
For more slow cooking tips, explore these essential slow cooker hacks to elevate your cooking skills.
Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Key Ingredients
- 3 pounds of potatoes (choose Yukon Gold or Russet for the best results)
- 1 cup diced ham (leftover or store-bought works well)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a similar blend)
- 1 can condensed cream soup (cream of mushroom or cream of celery)
- ½ cup water or milk (adjust for creaminess)
Optional Additions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- Chopped onions or shallots
- Vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or carrots
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Want to use fresh, homemade alternatives to canned soup? Learn how to make a creamy base from scratch to customize your recipe.
How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients for Slow Cooker Potatoes and Ham
Peel and slice potatoes thinly for even cooking. Dice ham into bite-sized pieces. Shred your preferred cheese to create a creamy, cheesy base for this crockpot scalloped potato recipe.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients for Cheesy Slow Cooker Potatoes
Grease the slow cooker. Start layering potatoes, ham, and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
Step 3: Create the Sauce for Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Mix condensed soup with water or milk. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper for flavor. Pour the sauce evenly over the layers in your slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes and Ham in a Crockpot
Set your slow cooker to high for 4 hours or low for 6–8 hours. The result will be perfectly tender and creamy slow cooker scalloped potatoes with ham
Want to master other recipes with layered flavors? Explore more comfort food ideas.
Creative Variations for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Try Protein Alternatives
Swap ham with cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage to change up this slow cooker comfort food recipe.
Experiment with Cheese Options
Use mozzarella, Gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors in your cheesy potato and ham dish.
Add More Vegetables
Incorporate carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition while keeping the dish rich and creamy.
Pro Tip: Complement this savory dish with a sweet treat, like pumpkin banana loaf—a moist and flavorful dessert that pairs beautifully with comfort foods.
Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Pair your slow cooker scalloped potatoes and ham with:
- A fresh green salad for balance
- Warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
For dessert, consider trying something light yet indulgent, like these classic shortbread cookies.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
How to Store Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating Your Leftover Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Use medium heat to maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Gluten-Free?
Yes! Replace the condensed soup with a gluten-free version or a homemade cream sauce.
What’s the Best Potato Variety for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes?
Russet potatoes absorb the sauce well, while Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape and offer a creamy texture.
How Do I Prevent Watery Scalloped Potatoes?
Stick to the recommended liquid ratio and avoid over-layering ingredients that release moisture, such as zucchini.
FAQs:
Do You Have to Boil Potatoes Before Slow Cooking?
No, you generally do not need to boil potatoes before slow cooking. However, there are specific scenarios where pre-boiling might be helpful. For instance, if you’re short on time, parboiling potatoes for 5–10 minutes can reduce the overall cooking time in the slow cooker. Moreover, boiling can help achieve a firmer texture, which is useful for recipes like potato salads.
On the other hand, slow cooking naturally tenderizes potatoes, allowing them to absorb flavors from other ingredients. Therefore, in most cases, slicing potatoes evenly and letting the slow cooker work its magic will yield perfectly cooked potatoes without the need for pre-boiling.
Do You Need to Soak Potatoes Before Making Scalloped Potatoes?
No, soaking potatoes is not strictly necessary for scalloped potatoes. Nonetheless, soaking can offer some benefits depending on the type of potatoes you use. For example, starchy potatoes like Russets can release excess starch when soaked in water, which helps prevent the dish from becoming gluey. Additionally, soaking sliced potatoes in cold water can keep them from oxidizing and turning brown if you are prepping them ahead of time.
However, if you’re in a rush or using less starchy varieties like Yukon Golds, you can skip this step without compromising the dish’s quality. Ultimately, soaking is an optional step, and its necessity depends on your preferences and the type of potatoes you use.
How Do You Make Paula Deen’s Scalloped Potatoes?
Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes are known for their creamy, indulgent flavor. To recreate this dish, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- Optional: garlic, onions, or fresh parsley for added flavor
Instructions:
output:
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- Then, layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted.
- After that, pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring even coverage.
- Next, top with the remaining cheese and dot with butter.
- Finally, bake for 45–60 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Alternatively, you can adapt this recipe to a slow cooker by layering the ingredients and cooking on low for 6–8 hours.
Will Potatoes Overcook in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, potatoes can overcook in a slow cooker if left in too long, especially on the “high” setting. As a result, overcooked potatoes may become mushy and lose their texture. To avoid this, consider these tips:
- First, cook on low for 6–8 hours to ensure even cooking without turning the potatoes mushy.
- Next, test the potatoes with a fork about an hour before the expected cooking time ends. This way, you can catch them at the perfect tenderness.
- Finally, choose waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or Red Bliss, as they hold their shape better than starchy types like Russets.
If your dish finishes cooking early, you can switch the slow cooker to the “warm” setting to maintain the temperature without overcooking.
Conclusion
Slow cooker scalloped potatoes and ham is a timeless comfort food recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something hearty, this dish delivers on every front. Ready to elevate your cooking? Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible blend of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese.
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