Name: Cozy Comfort: Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes for Effortless Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 1 pound ham, diced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 10.5 ounce can cheddar cheese soup; ½ cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

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I’m all about easy, comforting meals that don’t take up too much of my time, especially during busy days. That’s why my Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes is one of my absolute favorites. It’s so simple to throw together, and before I know it, I’ve got a warm, cheesy, and hearty dish that the whole family loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a Sunday dinner, this recipe always hits the spot and leaves everyone asking for seconds!

The best part is how versatile it is. You can use whatever ham you’ve got in the fridge, and even switch up the cheese to your liking—though I’ll admit, sharp cheddar is my go-to because it adds that extra flavor. The layers of potatoes, ham, and that creamy cheese sauce make for a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting, but without the fuss of a complicated recipe. It’s also one of those dishes that tastes even better as leftovers, which is always a win in my house.

I can’t even count how many times this dish has saved me when I needed a quick dinner that everyone would enjoy. It’s one of those recipes that I know will never disappoint, and I can always count on it to bring the family together around the table. If you’re looking for a simple, hearty meal that packs a lot of flavor, this Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes might just become your new go-to too!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and sliced: Start with fresh, tender potatoes to create a creamy base for your dish.
1 small onion, sliced: The onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to every bite.
1 pound ham, diced: Diced ham brings a savory, hearty element that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich and cheesy layer throughout the dish.
10.5 ounce can cheddar cheese soup: This convenient ingredient adds a velvety cheese sauce that ties everything together.
½ cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds a luscious creaminess that elevates the texture of the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper bring out all the flavors and balance the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

You can find a printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Add a layer of half of the sliced potatoes, half the onion, half the ham and 1/3 the cheese to your slow cooker.

2. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

3. Repeat the layers.

4. Top with a final layer of sliced potatoes.

5. In a small bowl whisk together the soup and heavy cream.

6. Pour the soup mixture over the potatoes.

7. Sprinkle with the remaining ham and cheese.

8. Cover and cook on low 6 hours or high 4 hours.

9. Serve!

Tips for Making the Perfect Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture. They break down slightly during cooking, giving the dish a creamy consistency. Make sure to peel and slice them evenly so they cook uniformly.
Layer ingredients evenly: When layering the potatoes, onions, ham, and cheese, be sure to spread each layer evenly. This ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Add extra flavor with seasonings: While salt and pepper are essential, you can also experiment with adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika for extra depth. Fresh thyme or rosemary can also add a lovely aromatic touch.
Use a sharp cheddar cheese: A sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor of the dish and helps it stand out against the creamy sauce. If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more on top for a cheesy crust.
Cook on low for the best results: Slow cooking on low for 6 hours will give the potatoes the time they need to become tender and absorb all the flavors. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 4 hours, but low and slow is always the way to go for maximum flavor.
Don’t skip the rest time: Once the dish is done, let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set and makes it easier to serve.
Customize the recipe: Feel free to swap out the ham for cooked bacon or sausage, or add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to make it your own!
Keep it covered: Always keep the slow cooker lid on during cooking. Removing the lid can let heat escape, extending the cook time and potentially affecting the texture.
Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also reheats beautifully, so it’s great for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Get Creative!

Swap the Ham for Bacon or Sausage: If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using crumbled bacon or cooked sausage instead of ham. The smoky richness of bacon or the savory kick of sausage will add a unique twist to this classic dish.
Add Veggies for Extra Color and Nutrition: Sneak in some extra veggies! Try adding diced carrots, sliced bell peppers, or fresh spinach to the layers for added color and nutrients. Broccoli or cauliflower would also be great choices for extra texture.
Use Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is my go-to, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. Mixing different cheeses creates a layered, complex flavor. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for a delicious crust!
Kick It Up a Notch with Spices: Want a little heat? Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some spice. If you’re a fan of garlic, you can add minced garlic or garlic powder to the layers for a more robust flavor.
Add a Crunchy Topping: For some extra texture, top your dish with crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will give it a satisfying crunchy finish!
Try a Different Protein: If you’re not into ham, use leftover rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shredded beef. The slow cooker does wonders with any kind of meat, so you can get creative with what you’ve got on hand.
Make It a One-Pot Meal: Add some protein and veggies in one go to make this a full meal. Chicken thighs or beef cubes pair nicely with the potatoes and cheese sauce, creating a satisfying all-in-one dinner.
Go Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. You can also use a plant-based cheese soup to keep the creamy consistency.
Herb It Up: Fresh or dried herbs can bring a new depth of flavor. Try thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an earthy, savory twist. You can even sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving for a burst of freshness.
Make It Spicy with Jalapeños: For a spicy version, layer in some sliced jalapeños with the ham and cheese. This will add a nice heat and a bit of crunch to the dish.

Serving & Storing

Serving:

Pair with a Fresh Salad: This dish is hearty on its own, but serving it with a light, refreshing salad—like a simple green salad, strawberry spinach salad, or even a tangy cucumber salad—balances out the richness and adds some crunch.
Serve with Garlic Bread or Rolls: For a comforting meal, serve your Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes with a side of warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce!
Top with Fresh Herbs: After cooking, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme on top for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. It’s a simple touch that makes the dish look even more appetizing.
Add a Side of Steamed Veggies: While this dish is loaded with potatoes, adding a side of steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or peas makes for a more well-rounded meal and gives you some extra vitamins.
Make It a Brunch or Potluck Dish: This is a fantastic dish to serve at a brunch, potluck, or family gathering. It’s easy to prepare ahead and is sure to be a crowd favorite. You can even serve it alongside some scrambled eggs for a breakfast-style meal.

Storing:

Store in an Airtight Container: After the dish has cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week!
Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the potatoes. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little bit of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Freeze for Later: If you have a large batch or want to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or slow cooker.
Avoid Freezing Fresh Herbs: If you’ve added fresh herbs as a garnish, it’s best to freeze the dish without them. Fresh herbs don’t hold up well in the freezer and can lose their flavor and texture.
Serve as a Leftover Makeover: Leftover Slow Cooker Ham and Scalloped Potatoes can be transformed into a new meal by adding some scrambled eggs for a breakfast casserole or mixing it with a little extra cheese and baking it for a crispy, golden top.

Yield: 6