Overview of Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Ever thought about making a delicious one-pot meal with simple ingredients? Our Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect slow cooker recipe. It turns basic ingredients into a warm, comforting dish.
This easy dinner is made with tender ham, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese. It’s ready in just 10 minutes. With 139 home cooks giving it high marks, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Key Takeaways
- Minimal prep time (10 minutes)
- Serves 6 people comfortably
- Versatile slow cooker recipe
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Budget-friendly comfort food
Why This Slow Cooker Comfort Dish Is Perfect for Any Season
Our slow cooker ham and potato casserole is a versatile meal that turns simple ingredients into a cozy dish. It’s perfect for any time of the year, adding warmth to your kitchen. It’s great for families looking for tasty and easy meals.
The slow cooker ham and potato casserole is incredibly flexible. It’s perfect for a hearty winter meal or a light summer dinner. It meets all your culinary needs.
“A great meal transcends seasonal boundaries” – Home Cooking Wisdom
- Perfect for holiday leftovers
- Quick preparation
- Minimal cleanup
- Nutritionally balanced
| Season | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Winter | Comfort food main course |
| Spring | Light family dinner |
| Summer | Potluck contribution |
| Autumn | Weekend family meal |
With just 20 minutes of prep and 5 hours of slow cooking, this meal is perfect for busy lives. It offers great flavor and nutrition.
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole
Making the perfect crockpot ham and potato casserole needs the right ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both delicious and comforting. Let’s explore the key parts that make this dish a hit with families.
Base Ingredients that Matter
The base of our casserole is high-quality potatoes. We suggest using:
- 32 oz frozen hash browns or 2 pounds of fresh russet potatoes
- 1-2 cups diced ham
- 1 small chopped onion
- Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Creamy Sauce Magic
The creamy sauce is what makes our casserole rich and velvety. Our recipe includes:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
“The right combination of ingredients transforms simple potatoes and ham into a memorable comfort food experience.”
Irresistible Topping Options
We add crispy, flavorful toppings to our casserole:
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Crushed cornflakes or herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- Additional cheese for extra richness
Pro tip: Drizzling melted butter over the topping ensures a golden, crispy finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making our tasty ham and potato casserole is easy with these clear slow cooker steps. We’ll guide you through making a delicious dish that’s easy to make but full of flavor.
- 8 medium potatoes, sliced or diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10.25 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Our slow cooker instructions are simple:
- Grease your crockpot or use a liner
- Layer potatoes and ham evenly
- Mix soup, milk, cheese, and seasonings
- Pour mixture over layers
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours
“The magic of this recipe is its simplicity and incredible flavor!” – Home Cooking Enthuasiast
If you prefer baking, preheat to 350°F. Mix all ingredients in a 9×13 baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for about an hour until it’s bubbly and golden.
Pro tip: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors blend and makes it perfect.
Creative Variations and Substitutions
Our ham and potato casserole recipe is super flexible for home cooks. It’s great for those who need to follow special diets or just want to try new tastes. We’ve got you covered.
Protein Options
Looking to change up the protein in your comfort dish? Our recipe is easy to modify with different proteins:
- Cubed chicken as a lean protein alternative
- Diced turkey for a lighter option
- Vegetarian protein crumbles for plant-based diets
- Tofu chunks for a completely meat-free version
Dietary Modifications
We know how important it is to meet different dietary needs. Here are some smart changes:
- Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free cream soup or make a homemade sauce
- Low-fat alternatives: Swap full-fat cheese for reduced-fat versions
- Increase vegetable content for added nutrition
- Consider adding green beans, peas, or bell
“Cooking is about customization and making a recipe your own!”
Our versatile casserole recipe lets everyone enjoy a tasty meal, no matter their diet or what they have on hand. With a few simple swaps, you can make this classic dish your own.
Conclusion
Our journey through this easy comfort food shows why the Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is loved in many kitchens. It’s a simple yet tasty meal for busy families. It’s perfect for those who want a hearty meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
This casserole is very flexible. It’s great for any meal, from a weeknight dinner to a big gathering. You can use Russet potatoes or try different proteins to make it your own.
We’ve looked at different ways to cook it, ingredients to use, and how to store leftovers. You can freeze it for 2-3 weeks or keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s a convenient and tasty meal for any time.
Learning this simple recipe means you’ll have a comforting dish ready for your family. Enjoy the ease and flavors of this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Red potatoes work well because they taste great and keep their shape. Just slice them thinly and use them in place of frozen hash browns.
How long does it take to cook the Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole?
Cooking time depends on your method. In a slow cooker, cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-4 hours. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for about an hour. Cover with foil until it’s bubbly and hot.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can make it vegetarian by using plant-based proteins or adding more veggies. Try adding green beans, peas, or sautéed bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.
What are some alternative protein options for this casserole?
You can swap ham for cubed chicken for a different protein. The recipe is flexible and can work with many protein choices, depending on what you like or need.
How can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
For gluten-sensitive diets, use gluten-free stuffing mix or skip it. For a low-fat version, use reduced-fat soups and cheese. Adding more veggies also boosts nutrition without losing flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge. Then, just mix them together in the slow cooker or baking dish and follow the cooking steps. It’s perfect for meal planning and busy days.
What are the best toppings for this casserole?
Herb-seasoned stuffing mix and crushed cornflakes are great toppings. Drizzle 4 tablespoons of melted butter over them for extra flavor and a crispy texture. These toppings make the casserole taste amazing and add a nice crunch.
