Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe – Easy Comfort Food

Warm, creamy, and packed with comforting homestyle flavors, Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. This hearty dish features tender chunks of ham, sliced potatoes, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights effortless and brings the whole family together around the table.

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of textures—creamy potatoes, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a hectic weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for Sunday dinner, this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is as simple to make as it is delicious. Add your favorite toppings like crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, sour cream, or shredded cheese for a colorful, customizable meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe

• Hands-off cooking: Let your crockpot do all the work while you tackle your day—minimal effort, maximum flavor.
• Perfect for leftovers: Use up leftover holiday ham in the most delicious way possible, turning extras into something everyone loves.
• Budget-friendly comfort: Affordable ingredients come together to create a filling, satisfying meal that feeds a crowd.
• Customizable and flexible: Add vegetables, switch up the cheese, or adjust seasonings to match your family’s preferences.
• Kid-approved favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and mild—this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe wins over even picky eaters every time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)

Before diving into this delicious Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make everything smoother—from prep to serving.

Essential Tools & Why You Need Them:

6-Quart Slow Cooker/Crockpot
This is the star of the show. A larger crockpot ensures even cooking and provides plenty of space for all the layers of potatoes and ham.

Sharp Knife & Mandoline Slicer
For cutting potatoes into uniform slices—consistent thickness means even cooking throughout the casserole.

Large Mixing Bowl
Perfect for tossing the potatoes with seasonings or mixing the cheese sauce ingredients before adding to the crockpot.

Measuring Cups & Spoons
Precision matters—especially for the cream, cheese, and seasonings that create that signature creamy texture.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Essential for gently stirring the casserole and scraping down the sides without damaging your crockpot insert.

Cutting Board
For dicing ham, chopping onions, or preparing any garnishes like green onions or parsley.

Having these items prepped and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

Preparation Tips

• Spray your crockpot insert with non-stick cooking spray before layering—this makes cleanup incredibly easy.
• Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure they all cook at the same rate and achieve perfect tenderness.
• Don’t skip the layering—alternating potatoes, ham, and cheese creates even distribution and better flavor in every bite.
• Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking—every peek releases heat and adds 15-20 minutes to cooking time.
• Add cheese in stages if you prefer—some at the beginning and more near the end for extra gooey topping.
• Let it rest for 10 minutes: After cooking, allowing the Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe to sit helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.

These small touches make a big difference in achieving restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Ingredients for This Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole to life. Most of the ingredients are pantry and refrigerator staples, making it both economical and convenient.

For the Casserole:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced into bite-sized cubes
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Chopped fresh chives or green onions
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream dollops
• Fresh parsley
• Crushed buttery crackers or French fried onions

Everything in this list balances comfort and flavor—the creamy sauce binds the tender potatoes and savory ham beautifully. The toppings are optional but add texture and fresh appeal.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Ham

Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for consistency. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl. Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized cubes and set aside. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, sour cream, chicken broth, melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended. The sauce should be creamy and pourable. Set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole in the Crockpot

Spray the inside of your 6-quart crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Begin layering: start with one-third of the sliced potatoes on the bottom, slightly overlapping them. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme. Add one-third of the diced ham, diced onion, and minced garlic over the potatoes. Sprinkle with about ⅔ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and some mozzarella.

Repeat this layering process two more times, using up all the potatoes, ham, onions, garlic, and most of the cheese. Reserve about ½ cup of cheddar cheese for topping later.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce and Cook

Pour the prepared creamy sauce evenly over all the layers in the crockpot, making sure it seeps down between the layers. Use a spoon to gently press down on the layers to help the sauce distribute evenly. Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and flavor.

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 5: Add Final Cheese and Serve

About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and let it melt into a golden, gooey layer.

Once done, turn off the crockpot and let the Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe rest for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream as desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting goodness.

Notes

Ham Options: Leftover holiday ham works perfectly, but deli ham or ham steak cut into cubes are great alternatives if you don’t have leftovers.

Potato Varieties: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well and have a buttery flavor, while russets create a fluffier, more traditional texture.

Make it Lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, use low-fat cream soup, or reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version that’s still delicious.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cutting potatoes too thick: Thick slices won’t cook through properly in the time frame. Aim for ⅛-inch thickness for best results.
• Not greasing the crockpot: Without non-stick spray, the bottom layer can stick and burn, making cleanup difficult.
• Lifting the lid too often: Each time you peek, you lose heat and extend cooking time. Trust the process and keep it covered.
• Using watery ham: If your ham is very wet or brined, pat it dry first to avoid making the casserole too watery.
• Forgetting to season between layers: Seasoning only the top means uneven flavor. Season each layer as you build for balanced taste.
• Overcooking on high heat: While the high setting is faster, low and slow yields the most tender, creamy results for this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately causes the sauce to be runny. Ten minutes of resting allows it to set beautifully.
• Skipping the sauce ingredients: Every component adds flavor and creaminess. Don’t leave anything out for best results.

What to Serve With Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe?

This hearty and creamy casserole is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete, well-rounded meal. Whether you want something light or indulgent, there’s a perfect accompaniment.

8 Delicious Recommendations:

Simple Green Salad
Fresh mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette cut through the richness and add a refreshing crunch.

Roasted Green Beans with Almonds
Tender-crisp green beans with toasted almonds provide a nutty contrast to the creamy casserole.

Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet, buttery carrots bring color and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ham.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce on your plate.

Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter
Light, healthy, and vibrant green—broccoli adds nutrition without competing with the main dish.

Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn, whether buttered or seasoned, is a classic pairing with ham and potatoes.

Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing
Cool, crunchy coleslaw provides textural contrast and a tangy balance to the rich casserole.

Apple Pie or Apple Crisp (for dessert)
A sweet, spiced apple dessert rounds out this comfort meal perfectly, especially in fall and winter.

These pairings help round out the meal and bring a homestyle, complete dining experience to your table.

Storage Instructions

Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe stores beautifully and makes excellent leftovers for quick lunches or dinners.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or cover the crockpot insert with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, portion the cooled casserole into individual freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that potatoes can sometimes change texture when frozen, but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating:

Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) in a covered baking dish for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium-high power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings)

Please note this is an approximate breakdown and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	410
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	28g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g
Total Fat	24g
Saturated Fat	13g
Unsaturated Fat	9g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	920mg

This dish delivers a comforting balance of protein, carbs, and fats—perfect for a hearty dinner that keeps you satisfied and warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble all the layers in your crockpot insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. The next day, place the insert in the crockpot and cook as directed—you may need to add 30 minutes to the cooking time since it’s starting cold.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon pieces work wonderfully. Just ensure the meat is already cooked before adding to the crockpot.

3. Is this casserole very heavy?
The base recipe is rich and creamy. You can lighten it by using low-fat dairy products, reducing cheese amounts, or adding more vegetables like spinach or peas.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely. Omit the ham and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower. Use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup for a hearty vegetarian version.

5. What if I don’t have a crockpot?
No problem. You can make this in a 9×13-inch baking dish covered with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60-75 minutes until potatoes are tender.

6. Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes! Use a larger 7-8 quart crockpot and double all ingredients. Cooking time may increase by 30-60 minutes on low heat.

7. Can I use fresh cream instead of condensed soup?
Certainly. Replace the soup with an additional cup of heavy cream plus 2 tablespoons of flour whisked in for thickness and body.

8. How do I prevent the potatoes from turning brown before cooking?
Keep sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water until ready to layer. Drain and pat dry before assembling the casserole.

Conclusion

Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together simple ingredients and slow-cooker convenience—all in one delicious dish. With its creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham, it’s everything you love about homestyle cooking without the fuss.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or using up leftover ham, this Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is as practical as it is delicious. Plus, with endless topping and customization options, it never gets boring. So grab your crockpot and make dinner something the whole family will love.