Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Thank you for being here—it means so much! Whether you’re planning an easy weeknight meal or need a hearty dish to warm hearts on a chilly day, this one’s a winner. These Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes are the kind of cozy, comforting recipe that fills your kitchen with delicious smells and your belly with happy satisfaction.

I love this dish because it’s so unfussy—you just toss everything in, let the slow cooker do the work, and a few hours later: creamy, savory, cheesy perfection. If easy comfort food is your thing (and let’s be real, it should be), make sure to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss a single cozy recipe drop!

What Is Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes?

This dish is a warm, rich, and savory casserole-style meal made in your slow cooker. It combines tender diced potatoes, chunks of ham, and creamy cheese sauce all slow-cooked until perfectly soft and flavorful. It’s the kind of recipe you make when you want dinner ready with zero last-minute effort.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep, maximum flavor – the slow cooker takes care of the hard part!

• Perfect for leftovers – use up that ham from Sunday dinner or holiday meals.

• One-pot meal – no need to dirty multiple dishes.

• Kid-approved and family-friendly – creamy potatoes + salty ham = comfort food magic.

What Does It Taste Like?

It’s creamy, salty, and savory with just the right amount of cheesiness. The potatoes soak up the flavors of the ham and broth, becoming tender and rich. Every bite is warm and hearty—like the best parts of a potato casserole and ham bake in one.

Benefits of the Recipe

• Budget-friendly – made with simple pantry staples and leftover ham.

• Customizable – add veggies, change the cheese, or make it spicy.

• Make-ahead friendly – perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting slow cooker dish:

• 6 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)

• 2 cups diced cooked ham

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)

• ¾ cup milk

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)

• Salt to taste (go easy—the ham is salty!)

Tools You’ll Need

• One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe is how low-maintenance it is—no fancy gadgets, no complicated steps. Just a few basic kitchen tools and your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting!

  Here’s what you’ll need to make prep and cooking a breeze:

  🥣 Slow Cooker (Crockpot)

  • A 4 to 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe.

  • Programmable models are handy if you want to set it and forget it for the day.

  🔪 Cutting Board & Sharp Knife

  • You’ll need to dice the potatoes, chop the ham (if not pre-diced), and slice the onion.

  🥄 Mixing Spoon or Spatula

  • For stirring together the creamy sauce and gently mixing ingredients before and after cooking.

  🧀 Box Grater or Cheese Shredder

  • If you’re shredding cheese fresh (which I highly recommend for best melt and flavor!).

  🥄 Measuring Cups & Spoons

  • To measure out milk, seasonings, and other mix-ins.

  🥄 Mixing Bowl (Optional)

  • You can stir the sauce together in a separate bowl before layering it into the slow cooker—or just mix it all right in the crock.

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Add-ins: Try frozen peas, corn, diced bell pepper, or chopped spinach for added nutrients.

• Swap the soup: Use cream of mushroom, celery, or even a homemade roux if avoiding canned soup.

• Cheese options: Gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a little kick!

• No ham? Use cooked bacon or leftover turkey for a twist.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice your potatoes into ½-inch chunks and dice your cooked ham. Chop the onion.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl (or directly in the slow cooker), combine cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and dried herbs. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Layer It Up

In your slow cooker, layer half the potatoes, half the ham, and half the onions. Pour half the sauce on top and sprinkle with some cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors are melded.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Give everything a good stir, taste for seasoning, and top with extra cheese or fresh herbs if you like. Serve hot!

What to Serve with Ham and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes is a cozy, all-in-one comfort meal—but the right sides can elevate it into a satisfying, well-rounded dinner. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner, a potluck, or using up holiday leftovers, these side dish ideas pair beautifully with the rich, creamy flavors of ham and potatoes.

🥦 Light & Fresh Veggies

Balance the richness of the dish with something fresh or lightly cooked:

• Steamed Green Beans
  Crisp and simple, they add color and freshness to your plate.

• Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts
  Roasting brings out their sweetness and adds a little crunch.

• Garden Salad
  A quick salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creamy main dish.

• Sautéed Spinach or Kale
  Lightly sautéed greens with garlic and a splash of lemon juice add a nourishing, slightly tangy contrast.

🍞 Breads & Rolls

Scoop up every last bit of that cheesy sauce with a warm slice of bread!

• Dinner Rolls
  Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up the creamy goodness.

• Buttermilk Biscuits
  Flaky, tender biscuits pair perfectly and add a touch of Southern comfort.

• Garlic Bread
  Toasty and flavorful, especially good if you’re serving this dish at a casual dinner party or potluck.

🍎 Sweet & Tangy Sides

Bright, fruity flavors work wonders with salty ham:

• Applesauce
  A classic pairing with ham that brings sweetness and nostalgia.

• Cranberry Sauce
  Not just for Thanksgiving! Its tart-sweet flavor complements ham beautifully.

• Fruit Salad
  Try a mix of apples, grapes, and citrus for a refreshing side.

🥣 Hearty Additions (For Bigger Meals)

Want to stretch this meal for a crowd or add more substance? These options do the trick:

• Baked Beans
  Sweet and savory beans add depth and pair nicely with both ham and potatoes.

• Deviled Eggs
  Great for potlucks or special dinners, and they fit the retro comfort vibe perfectly.

• Mac and Cheese
  Because there’s no such thing as too much comfort food!

🧂 Condiments & Toppings

Don’t forget these finishing touches:

• Chopped chives or green onions for freshness

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy drizzle

• Extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top

• Hot sauce if you like a little kick!

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

• 🥔 Use the Right Potatoes

  Yukon gold and russet potatoes work best for this dish.

  • Yukon golds hold their shape and have a naturally buttery flavor.

  • Russets break down a bit more, making the dish creamier.

  Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes unless you prefer firmer texture.

  🔪 Dice Potatoes Evenly

  Cut your potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Uneven pieces can lead to some being mushy while others stay too firm.

  🍖 Use Fully Cooked Ham

  This recipe is designed for pre-cooked ham (like leftovers from a holiday roast or store-bought diced ham). Raw ham won’t cook properly in the slow cooker and could affect the dish’s overall texture and flavor.

  🧅 Don’t Skip the Onion

  Even if you’re not usually a fan, the diced onion melts into the mix, adding savory depth without being overpowering.

  Want a sweeter flavor? Sauté the onions for a few minutes before adding them in!

  🧄 Season Carefully

  Ham is naturally salty, and canned soup and cheese add extra sodium too. Taste before adding salt—you may not need any at all.

  🧀 Grate Your Own Cheese

  For the smoothest, creamiest texture, grate cheese fresh from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can lead to grainy or oily results when melted.

  🥣 Layer for Best Flavor

  Layering your ingredients—potatoes, then ham, then sauce—helps the flavors meld evenly during cooking. A gentle stir before serving brings everything together beautifully.

  🕒 Don’t Overcook

  Even in a slow cooker, potatoes can overcook and become mushy if left too long. Stick to 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH. Check for fork-tender potatoes around the minimum time.

  🌿 Add Freshness at the End

  A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives right before serving adds color and a pop of brightness that balances the creamy richness.

  🧊 Let It Rest Before Serving

  Letting the dish sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes for cleaner, more flavorful servings.

Storage Instructions

This dish stores beautifully—maybe even better the next day!

In the Fridge:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen it up.

In the Freezer:

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat until piping hot.

General Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW / 3–4 hours on HIGH

• Total Time: About 6–7 hours

• Yield: 6 servings

• Skill Level: Easy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use raw ham?

You’ll need fully cooked ham for this recipe. If using raw ham, cook it separately first to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before and store it in the fridge. Pop it in the slow cooker in the morning and cook as directed.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Absolutely. Just be sure they’re diced and not seasoned. No need to thaw—just add 30–45 extra minutes of cooking time.

Conclusion

There’s just something so comforting about a big bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes—especially when it practically cooks itself! It’s cozy, creamy, filling, and endlessly flexible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up leftovers, or just need an easy win for dinner, this recipe checks every box.

Want more slow cooker comfort food? Try these:

• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Rice

• Crockpot Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Soup

• Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Apple Cider Slaw

Share the Love!

Did you make this recipe? I’d love to see how it turned out for you! Leave a review, drop a comment below, or tag your photos on Pinterest or Instagram so we can celebrate comfort food season together 💛

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 18g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Sugar: 3g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 980mg

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: About 6–7 hours
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes are the kind of cozy, comforting recipe that fills your kitchen with delicious smells and your belly with happy satisfaction. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender potatoes and savory ham, it’s the perfect fuss-free dinner that practically cooks itself.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Dice your potatoes into ½-inch chunks and dice your cooked ham. Chop the onion.
2. In a bowl (or directly in the slow cooker), combine cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and dried herbs. Stir until smooth.
3. In your slow cooker, layer half the potatoes, half the ham, and half the onions. Pour half the sauce on top and sprinkle with some cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors are melded.
5. Give everything a good stir, taste for seasoning, and top with extra cheese or fresh herbs if you like. Serve hot!

Notes

Dice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking. Use fully cooked ham. Grate your own cheese for best melt and flavor. Pre-sauté onions for deeper flavor. Stir gently before serving to avoid breaking the potatoes too much. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooked
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: slow cooker, ham, potatoes, creamy, cheesy, one-pot meal