When you need a hearty, comforting dinner that practically makes itself, look no further than this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole. It’s a warm and creamy dish loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, melted cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly family meal or a creative way to use up leftover ham, this slow cooker classic is always a win.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this cozy casserole is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or lazy Sundays. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy a stress-free dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced potatoes (peeled or unpeeled; Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash, peel (if desired), and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about ½ inch). Dice the cooked ham and finely chop the onion.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
- Lightly grease your slow cooker with nonstick spray. Add half the potatoes, half the ham, and half the chopped onion. Pour half of the sauce over the layer and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the casserole is bubbling hot.
Step 5: Final Touch
- Once done, sprinkle with remaining cheese (if desired) and let it melt for 5–10 minutes with the lid on. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Variation:
- Add vegetables: Toss in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or chopped broccoli for more nutrition and color.
- Switch up the cheese: Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Use hash browns: Substitute fresh diced potatoes with frozen hash browns for extra convenience.
- Make it extra creamy: Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese for a richer texture.
COOKING Note:
Avoid overcooking or using too much liquid, as the potatoes will release moisture. The sauce may look thin at first but will thicken as it cools slightly. Be sure to dice the potatoes small and evenly to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the casserole.
- Green beans or roasted veggies: Add a fresh veggie side for more texture and fiber.
- Bread or rolls: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce.
- Eggs for breakfast: Leftovers make a delicious savory breakfast casserole with a fried egg on top!
Tips:
- Spray your crockpot well or use a liner for easy cleanup.
- Stir halfway through cooking (if possible) to avoid sticking.
- Use leftover holiday ham for added flavor and reduce food waste.
- Let it rest 10 minutes before serving—it’ll thicken and slice better.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: ~5 hours 15 minutes
🥘 Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~430
- Protein: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~25g
- Sodium: ~880mg
- Sugar: ~3g
- Fiber: ~2g
Note: Values may vary depending on brand and ingredient variations.
❓FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble everything the night before, store in the fridge, and start the slow cooker the next day.
Can I freeze this casserole?
- Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What potatoes work best?
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work great. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they hold their shape but may not soften as well in the crockpot.
Can I make this without cream of mushroom soup?
- Yes, substitute with cream of chicken or use a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk.
Do I need to cook the ham first?
- No. Use fully cooked ham—leftovers from a holiday meal work perfectly.
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole is a true comfort food classic—hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a no-fuss dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or using up leftover ham, this slow cooker meal is always a satisfying choice. So go ahead and let the crockpot do the work while you enjoy the cozy, creamy goodness that brings everyone to the table.