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

Begin by preparing your slow cooker. It's essential to lightly butter the inside to prevent the food from sticking, ensuring a smooth serving experience when it's time to dish out this creamy delight. The richness of the butter will also add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

Next, it’s time to layer your ingredients meticulously. Start by distributing half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the slow cooker, creating a solid base for your dish. Follow with half of the thinly sliced onions, spreading them out to incorporate their sweetness throughout the layers. Then, add half of the diced ham, letting its savory essence fill the crevices.

Now comes a crucial step: sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over this first layer. The cheese will melt beautifully during cooking, binding all the flavors together.

Continue with the layering process by adding the remaining potato slices, followed by the onions and ham. This second layer ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

In a separate bowl, prepare the creamy sauce that will envelop these layers in deliciousness. Combine the can of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, paprika, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth, allowing the ingredients to blend harmoniously. This sauce is what sets your potatoes apart, with its creamy texture and rich flavor elevating the dish to a whole new level.

Once the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Ensure it covers everything, allowing the creamy goodness to seep down through the layers during the cooking process.

Now, it’s time to cover the slow cooker with its lid. Setting it to low heat, allow the dish to cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you're short on time, you can set it to high heat for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, and the flavors have melded beautifully into one another.

As the cooking time nears its end, you’re almost ready to enjoy a bowl full of flavorful bliss. In the last 10 to 15 minutes, remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top. Close the lid again and allow the cheese to melt to gooey perfection. This final touch adds a delightful cheesy crust that everyone will relish.

Once the time is up, remove the slow cooker from its base and serve this hearty dish hot. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen will be irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around the table. For a pop of color and a fresh touch, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly 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!