Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: Easy Comfort Food Recipe

There’s a certain magic that happens when you gather simple ingredients and transform them into something truly comforting. Today, I want to share a recipe that embodies that magic: Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. It’s a dish that whispers of cozy evenings, shared laughter, and the simple joy of homemade goodness. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate.

Imagine the gentle aroma filling your kitchen as the slow cooker works its wonders. The creamy potatoes, the savory ham, the subtle hints of garlic and thyme – it all comes together in a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a cherished family tradition, even if it’s your first time making it.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just for its deliciousness, but for its ease and convenience. There’s something incredibly freeing about letting the slow cooker do the work, allowing you to focus on other things while a comforting meal simmers away. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a little homemade goodness without the fuss.

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal hands-on time means more time for you. Simply layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the rest.
• Deeply Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Great for Meal Prepping: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add your favorite cheese, vegetables, or spices to create a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients for Soulful Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• 4 lb russet potatoes, peeled and slice to about 1/4th inch
• 3 cups cheese, freshly grated
• 3 cups diced turkey ham (I used 2 eight ounce turkey ham steaks)
• 1/3 cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp fresh thyme
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp wholegrain mustard (can substitute with dijon)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s walk through the simple steps of creating this heartwarming dish. Remember, baking is as much about the process as it is about the result. Allow yourself to slow down, breathe, and enjoy each moment.

1. Using a mandoline slicer or the mandoline attachment on a food processor cut peeled potatoes into about 1/4th inch slices. Dice the turkey ham. Grate the cheese. Thinly slice the green onions and mince the garlic and thyme. Set your ingredients aside.
2. In a medium size mixing bowl combine heavy cream, chicken broth, wholegrain mustard, salt, pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne (if desired).
3. To assemble layer about 1/3rd of the potato slices on the bottom of a large, greased slow cooker in an even layer. Top with 1 cup of diced turkey ham, 1 cup of cheese along with about a third of the green onions, garlic and thyme. Evenly pour about 1/3rd of the cream sauce over the top. Then repeat the process 2 more times: potatoes, turkey ham, cheese, green onions, garlic and thyme, then sauce, until all of the ingredients have been used up and you have 3 distinct layers.
4. Cover with a lid and cook on high heat for about 4-5 hours until the potatoes are very tender. *Cooking time will vary depending on how thick the potatoes were sliced.*Once the potatoes are tender, most of the liquid has been absorbed and the top is a light golden brown you can turn off the heat. Allow the potatoes to sit in the warm slow cooker for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

These little tips can elevate your scalloped potatoes and ham from good to extraordinary. They’re the secrets I’ve learned over time, the small touches that make a big difference.

• Potato Prep: Ensure even cooking by slicing the potatoes uniformly. A mandoline slicer works wonders for this.
• Cheese Choice: Use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan are all excellent choices.
• Don’t Overcook: Check the potatoes for tenderness after 4 hours. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy.
• The Right Ham: Use a good quality ham that isn’t too salty. Turkey ham is a great option.
• Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little extra thyme or garlic can add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We all make mistakes in the kitchen, and that’s perfectly okay. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when making scalloped potatoes and ham.

• Uneven Slicing: Inconsistent potato thickness leads to uneven cooking.
• Too Much Liquid: Adding too much cream or broth can result in a watery dish.
• Not Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave the dish bland.
• Opening the Lid Too Often: Resist the urge to peek! Opening the lid releases heat and can prolong the cooking time.
• Rushing the Process: Allow the slow cooker to work its magic. Rushing the cooking time can result in undercooked potatoes.

Variations: Adding Your Own Personal Touch

One of the beautiful things about cooking is the freedom to experiment and create. Here are a few variations to inspire your own culinary adventures.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sliced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
• Herbal Infusion: Add fresh rosemary, sage, or oregano for a more aromatic dish.
• Smoked Ham: Use smoked ham for a richer, more intense flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

Proper storage ensures that your scalloped potatoes and ham remain delicious even the next day. Here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful.

• Storage: Allow the potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze scalloped potatoes and ham. Thaw completely before reheating. Be aware that the texture may change slightly.

Serving Suggestions: Completing the Meal

Scalloped potatoes and ham are a wonderful dish on their own, but they’re even better when paired with complementary sides. Consider these serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal. This is a great side dish to bring to share with friends and family.

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes and ham.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy and vibrant touch.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Green Charcuterie Board: Serve as a side to a green charcuterie board.
• Roasted Chicken or Pork: For a heartier meal, serve with roasted chicken or pork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making slow cooker scalloped potatoes and ham. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments below!

• Can I use a different type of potato?: Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are also great choices.
• Can I use milk instead of cream?: While you can, the dish will be less creamy. For the best results, use heavy cream.
• Can I make this ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it.
• How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the slow cooker?: Grease the slow cooker well before adding the potatoes.
• Can I add cheese to the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking?: Yes, this will create a golden brown, cheesy crust.

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Remember, baking is about more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating moments of warmth, comfort, and connection. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and let the simple act of baking nourish your soul.