Description

Welcome to a comforting culinary delight that warms the heart and pleases the palate: Slow-Cooked Potatoes with Ham. This dish, with its origins in homestyle cooking, embodies the essence of simplicity and heartiness, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Imagine layers of tender, creamy potatoes mingling with savory ham and a delectable cheese topping, all infused with the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked goodness.

What makes this dish truly special is not only its delightful taste but also the love and nostalgia that comes with preparing a meal that many of us might remember from our childhood kitchens. Comfort food at its finest, this recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and forget it while it develops a rich and flavorful character. The result is a one-pot wonder that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into the heartwarming process of creating this creamy, cheesy potato and ham dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Ingredients

• For this comforting dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
• Four cups of thinly sliced potatoes (approximately six medium-sized potatoes)
• One onion, thinly sliced
• One and a half cups of diced cooked ham
• One cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• One can of mushroom soup (10 3/4 ounces)
• Half a cup of milk
• Half a cup of sour cream
• A quarter teaspoon of garlic powder
• Half a teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for greasing
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Feel free to explore your creativity with ingredient substitutions. For instance, you can use leftover roasted chicken instead of ham or experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the slow cooker by buttering the inside to prevent sticking.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker.
3. Add half of the sliced onions on top of the potatoes.
4. Add half of the diced ham over the onions.
5. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the ham.
6. Layer the remaining potato slices, followed by the onions and ham.
7. In a bowl, mix mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
8. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
9. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours or high heat for 3 to 4 hours.
10. In the last 10 to 15 minutes, remove the lid and add the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
11. Cover again and let the cheese melt.
12. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips and Conclusion

Want to elevate your meal even further? Consider serving your Slow-Cooked Potatoes with Ham alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness and crunch from a simple side salad can balance the rich flavors of the potatoes.

If you're looking for a variation of this recipe, why not transform it into a breakfast staple? Add scrambled eggs for a filling brunch option or serve it within an omelet for a hearty breakfast twist that your guests will absolutely love.

Storing leftovers can also be easy with this dish. Keep any uneaten portions in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it up in the microwave or in a pan over low heat until heated through, enjoying that homey smell all over again.
As you take a moment to savor the final product of your kitchen labor, remember that cooking is not just about nourishment but also about experience. This recipe for Slow-Cooked Potatoes with Ham is more than just a meal; it's an invitation to gather, share stories, and create cherished memories around the dining table.

Dive deeper into our collection of recipes to find inspired side dishes, delicious desserts, or comforting soups—all waiting to enhance your culinary experiences. Please share your thoughts and adaptations of this recipe with others; you might inspire a new tradition in someone else's kitchen!

Now, grab your fork and relish the joy of this creamy, cheesy potato dish. We promise it will not only fill your stomach but also your heart. Happy cooking!