Alright, friends, let’s talk about a kitchen game-changer: Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Forget slaving over a hot stove; we’re bringing comfort food into the 21st century with this ridiculously easy, utterly decadent recipe. Trust me, this will become your new secret weapon for potlucks, holidays, or even just a Tuesday night when you need a serious dose of cheesy goodness. And the best part? Minimal effort, maximum flavor. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Seriously, what’s not to love? This recipe is the ultimate hack for achieving that creamy, dreamy scalloped potato perfection without all the fuss. Here’s why it’s about to become your go-to:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Dump it in the slow cooker and forget about it. Seriously. Go binge-watch your favorite show; these potatoes have got this.
- Unbelievably Cheesy: We’re talking a symphony of cheddar and Gruyere, perfectly melted into every nook and cranny. It’s a cheese lover’s dream.
- Flavor Explosion: Smoked turkey ham, sweet onion, and a creamy, dreamy sauce elevate these scalloped potatoes to a whole new level. Thank you, slow cooker!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser. They can be served as a main course or a side dish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prep everything in the morning, and come dinner time, you’re golden. It doesn’t get easier than that!
The Secret’s in the Sauce
Let’s be real, the sauce is the star of the show. This isn’t your grandma’s bland béchamel; we’re talking about a flavor-packed concoction that will make you want to lick the slow cooker clean. The onion and chive cream cheese adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness. Don’t skimp on the Parmesan – it’s the secret weapon for that extra layer of savory deliciousness. If you want the ultimate creamy sauce, don’t skip the blender step!
Ingredients for Crockpot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes And Ham
- 3 lb Yukon gold potatoes (sliced 1/4 inch thick)
- 1/2 lb smoked turkey ham (cubed)
- 1 small sweet onion (finely diced)
- 2 cup shredded sharp white or yellow cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 oz onion and chive cream cheese (softened)
- 3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 Tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh chives
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes And Ham Crock Pot: Step-by-Step
Okay, listen up, because this is insanely easy. Follow these steps, and you’ll be basking in scalloped potato glory in no time.
- Prep Like a Pro: Liberally spray the bottom and sides of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. No one wants stuck-on potatoes. Cube the turkey ham, dice the onion, and mix together the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. This speeds up the layering process.
- Whip Up the Sauce: Pour the chicken broth, half and half, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic salt, black pepper, and ground mustard into a stand blender. Process until smooth and fully combined. This ensures a velvety, lump-free sauce.
- Layer it On: Separate all ingredients into thirds. Begin layering 1/3 of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with 1/3 diced onion and 1/3 of the cubed turkey ham. Drizzle with 1/3 of the sauce and 1/3 of the shredded cheese. Repeat ending with sauce and cheese. Layering is key for even cooking and maximum flavor distribution.
- Paper Towel Trick: Cover the opening of the slow cooker with doubled paper towels, then place the lid firmly on top. This absorbs excess moisture and prevents soggy potatoes.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the crock from the slow cooker, sprinkle with chopped chives, and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Pro Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes Ham Crockpot
Want to take your scalloped potato game to the next level? Of course, you do! Here are a few insider tips:
- Potato Perfection: Yukon gold potatoes are your best bet for creamy, tender results. They hold their shape without getting mushy.
- Slice ‘Em Thin: Aim for 1/4-inch thick slices for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is your friend here, but a sharp knife works just as well.
- Cheese, Please!: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Havarti, or even a touch of blue cheese can add a unique twist.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked scalloped potatoes are sad scalloped potatoes. Check for tenderness after the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly.
- Get Saucy: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow it to reduce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the easiest recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the Cooking Spray: Trust me, you’ll regret it. No one wants to spend an hour scraping burnt potatoes off the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Don’t pack the potatoes in too tightly. This can prevent them from cooking evenly.
- Forgetting the Paper Towels: Soggy potatoes are a no-go. The paper towels are essential for absorbing excess moisture.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is a must for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Ignoring the Resting Time: Patience, my friend! Letting the potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving makes all the difference.
Variations on Your Slow Cooker Ham And Scalloped Potatoes
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery twist.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
- Bacon Bliss: Replace the turkey ham with crispy bacon for a smoky, salty treat.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the sauce for an extra garlicky punch.
- Herby Goodness: Sprinkle in some fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herbaceous aroma.
How to Store Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. These slow cooker scalloped potatoes and ham are just as good the next day! The flavor intensifies as the ingredients meld together. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Let it sit in the fridge overnight to thaw. The texture may change slightly, but the flavor will still be amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of potato? While Yukon gold potatoes are my top choice, Russet potatoes will also work. Just be sure to slice them thinly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Can I make this without ham? Absolutely! Simply omit the ham or substitute with another protein of your choice.
- Can I use regular milk instead of half and half? Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For best results, stick with half and half.
- Can I add other ingredients? Of course! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices.
- Can I cook this on high or low? You can cook it on either setting, but the cooking time will vary. Check for tenderness after the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
These Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a complete and satisfying meal.
- As a Main Course: Add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a light and easy dinner.
- For Holiday Gatherings: These scalloped potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
- Potluck Perfection: Transport them in the slow cooker to keep them warm and ready to serve.
So, there you have it! The ultimate hack for achieving cheesy scalloped potato perfection without all the fuss. Now go forth and conquer the kitchen, my friends! And don’t forget to thank me later. 😉