This Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole is the kind of comforting crockpot dinner that turns simple chopped ham into a rich, creamy meal the whole family can enjoy. Tender potatoes, savory ham, onions, garlic, cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce cook together slowly until everything is hot, flavorful, and perfectly tender.
Inspired by the preparation shown in the image, this recipe begins with a generous amount of chopped ham placed directly into the slow cooker. From there, potatoes and a creamy cheese sauce transform that simple ingredient into a complete dinner that works especially well when you have leftover holiday ham to use.
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can make it extra cheesy, add broccoli or peas, use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes, or turn it into a ham-and-cabbage version when you want something lighter.
It is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, Sunday dinner, meal prep, Easter leftovers, Christmas leftovers, or any time you need a filling family meal without spending hours at the stove.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole |
| Focus Keyword | Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time on LOW | 5–6 hours |
| Cook Time on HIGH | 2½–3½ hours |
| Total Time | About 5½–6½ hours |
| Servings | 6–8 |
| Course | Main Dish |
| Cuisine | American Comfort Food |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Main Protein | Ham |
| Main Vegetable | Potatoes |
| Cooking Method | Slow Cooker |
| Texture | Creamy, Tender & Cheesy |
| Best For | Family Dinner, Leftover Ham |
| Make Ahead | Yes |
| Freezer Friendly | Yes, with some texture change |
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe
Ham is one of the easiest proteins to use in a slow cooker because it is usually already cooked.
That means you are not relying on the crockpot to cook raw meat safely from beginning to end.
Instead, the slow cooker is mainly warming the ham while cooking the potatoes and allowing all the flavors to blend together.
This makes the recipe very forgiving.
It is also excellent for leftovers.
A large holiday ham can easily produce several pounds of extra meat, and chopping that ham into small pieces gives you the perfect base for casseroles, soups, breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and slow-cooker meals.
The creamy sauce also makes the recipe especially family-friendly.
What Does Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole Taste Like?
The flavor is rich, savory, creamy, and slightly smoky.
Ham provides saltiness and a subtle sweetness.
Potatoes absorb the ham flavor as they cook.
Onion and garlic add savory depth.
Cheddar brings sharpness and richness.
A creamy sauce ties everything together.
The overall flavor is similar to scalloped potatoes with ham, but the slow cooker makes the preparation much easier.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 cups chopped cooked ham
- 2½ pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt only if needed
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
Optional Additions
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup corn
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Ingredient Guide
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ham | Adds smoky, savory flavor |
| Potatoes | Make the casserole hearty |
| Cheddar | Adds sharp cheese flavor |
| Monterey Jack | Creates smooth melting |
| Cream Cheese | Thickens and enriches sauce |
| Milk | Creates creamy consistency |
| Chicken Broth | Adds savory moisture |
| Onion | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Garlic | Enhances savory flavor |
| Thyme | Complements ham |
| Smoked Paprika | Adds warmth and color |
What Kind of Ham Should You Use?
Several types of cooked ham work well.
Leftover Holiday Ham
This is probably the best option.
Cube or chop leftover baked ham into bite-sized pieces.
Both glazed and unglazed ham work.
If your ham has a very sweet glaze, reduce any additional sweetness in the casserole.
Deli Ham
Thick-cut deli ham can also work.
Ask for thick slices rather than extremely thin sandwich slices.
Then chop the ham into small pieces.
Ham Steak
Ham steak is inexpensive and convenient.
Cut it into cubes before adding it to the slow cooker.
Spiral Ham
Leftover spiral ham works beautifully.
Cut the slices into smaller pieces.
Because spiral ham is sometimes very salty, taste the finished casserole before adding extra salt.
Do You Need to Cook the Ham First?
If you are using fully cooked ham, no.
Most ham sold for holidays, sandwiches, or ham steaks is already cooked.
You are simply reheating it in the slow cooker.
If using an uncooked pork product, follow its specific cooking requirements instead of treating it like ready-to-eat ham.
Best Potatoes for This Recipe
Yukon Gold potatoes are one of the best choices.
They have a naturally buttery flavor and hold together well after slow cooking.
Russet potatoes also work.
They become softer and starchier, which can make the sauce feel thicker.
Red potatoes are another good option if you prefer firmer potato pieces.
Should You Peel the Potatoes?
That is optional.
Yukon Gold and red potato skins are relatively thin.
You can scrub the potatoes well and leave the skins on.
Russet skins are thicker, so many people prefer peeling them.
Leaving the skins on saves preparation time and gives the casserole a slightly more rustic texture.
How Thick Should You Slice the Potatoes?
Aim for slices around 1/4 inch thick.
If the slices are extremely thick, they may take much longer to become tender.
If they are paper-thin, they can break apart completely.
Keeping the slices similar in thickness helps the potatoes cook evenly.
A mandoline slicer makes this easy, but a sharp knife works perfectly.
Equipment Needed
- 5- or 6-quart slow cooker
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than many bags of pre-shredded cheese because packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking ingredients.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
A thin coating of butter or nonstick spray helps prevent the potatoes and cheese from sticking around the edges.
Step 2: Chop the Ham
Cut the cooked ham into small bite-sized pieces.
The pieces shown in the image appear finely chopped, and that style works particularly well because it distributes ham throughout every serving.
If you prefer larger pieces, use 1/2-inch cubes.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if desired.
Slice them approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Try to make the slices similar in size.
Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion.
Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Sprinkle flour over the onions.
Stir for approximately 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth.
Continue whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Seasonings
Stir in:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Thyme
- Black pepper
Do not add much salt yet.
Ham and cheese already contain plenty of sodium.
It is easier to add salt later than to fix an overly salty casserole.
Step 6: Add Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat.
Add the softened cream cheese.
Whisk until the sauce becomes smooth.
The sauce should look creamy but not extremely thick.
It will thicken further as the potatoes cook.
Step 7: Layer the Slow Cooker
Place one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom.
Add one-third of the chopped ham.
Sprinkle with some cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Spoon some sauce over the layer.
Repeat.
Finish with potatoes, ham, sauce, and cheese.
Layering helps distribute everything evenly.
Step 8: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker.
Cook on:
LOW for approximately 5–6 hours
or
HIGH for approximately 2½–3½ hours.
The casserole is ready when the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
Try not to repeatedly open the lid.
Every time the lid is removed, heat escapes and cooking takes longer.
Step 9: Add Final Cheese
During the last 20–30 minutes, sprinkle additional cheddar over the top.
Cover again.
Let the cheese melt.
This gives the casserole a rich, cheesy finish.
Step 10: Let It Rest
Turn off the slow cooker.
Allow the casserole to sit uncovered for approximately 10–15 minutes.
The sauce thickens slightly as it cools.
This makes serving much easier.
How to Keep the Potatoes from Staying Hard
Potatoes need enough heat and moisture to soften.
Slice them thinly and evenly.
Do not use huge chunks.
Keep the slow cooker covered.
Make sure there is enough creamy sauce around the layers.
If your potatoes are still firm near the end, continue cooking until fork-tender.
Different slow cookers heat at different rates.
How to Keep the Casserole from Becoming Watery
Potatoes, ham, and vegetables can release moisture during cooking.
There are several ways to keep the sauce creamy.
Do not use excessive broth.
Use the measured flour.
Let the casserole rest uncovered before serving.
If using frozen vegetables, add them near the end rather than at the beginning.
For an extra-thick sauce, stir in an additional tablespoon of flour when preparing the sauce.
Easy Frozen Hash Brown Version
You can make the recipe even easier with frozen potatoes.
Use approximately 30 ounces frozen diced hash browns.
No peeling or slicing is required.
Layer them with the chopped ham, cheese, and sauce.
Cook on LOW until everything is hot and tender.
Frozen hash browns create more of a classic casserole texture.
Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Casserole
For a richer version, use:
- Chopped ham
- Frozen hash browns
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar
- Sour cream
- Creamy sauce
This variation is especially popular for potlucks and holiday brunches.
You can even prepare it the night before and start the slow cooker in the morning.
Ham and Broccoli Casserole
Add approximately 2 cups broccoli florets.
For the best texture, add the broccoli during the final 45–60 minutes instead of cooking it for the entire time.
This keeps the broccoli greener and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Broccoli and cheddar pair naturally with ham.
Ham and Pea Version
Add one cup frozen peas during the final 20–30 minutes.
Peas bring sweetness and color.
Because they cook quickly, there is no reason to add them at the beginning.
Ham and Corn Casserole
Add one cup frozen or canned corn.
If using canned corn, drain it well.
Corn makes the casserole slightly sweeter and is especially good for family meals with children.
Ham and Mushroom Casserole
Cook sliced mushrooms with the onions before making the sauce.
Mushrooms add earthy flavor and pair very well with ham.
Use approximately 8 ounces.
Cook them until most of their moisture has evaporated.
Ham and Bacon Casserole
Want an extra-rich version?
Add about 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon.
Fold half into the casserole.
Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top just before serving.
Because both bacon and ham are salty, do not add much additional salt.
Ham and Cabbage Slow Cooker Variation
Another excellent way to use chopped ham is with cabbage.
Use:
- 4 cups chopped ham
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion
- 3 carrots
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Garlic
- Black pepper
- Thyme
Cook until the cabbage and carrots are tender.
This creates a lighter, soupier dinner without cheese or cream sauce.
Ham and Bean Soup Variation
Chopped ham is also perfect for slow cooker ham and beans.
Combine:
- Chopped ham
- White beans
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Thyme
- Bay leaf
Cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
This is one of the best uses for leftover ham.
Ham and Potato Soup
For a soup instead of a casserole, increase the broth.
Use approximately:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 pounds diced potatoes
- 3 cups ham
- Onion
- Garlic
- Carrots
Cook until tender.
Then add milk or cream during the final portion of cooking.
Mash a small amount of potato into the broth to naturally thicken the soup.
Ham and Cheese Pasta Variation
Cook the ham in a creamy cheese sauce.
Add cooked pasta during the final 20 minutes.
Macaroni, shells, or penne work particularly well.
Do not add uncooked pasta at the beginning unless the recipe is specifically adjusted for the extra liquid it requires.
Breakfast Ham Casserole
Chopped ham can also become a slow cooker breakfast casserole.
Layer:
- Frozen hash browns
- Chopped ham
- Cheddar cheese
- Bell peppers
- Green onions
Whisk eggs with milk.
Pour over everything.
Cook until the eggs are completely set.
This is an excellent Christmas morning or brunch recipe.
Ham and Egg Breakfast Casserole
For a large breakfast, use:
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups chopped ham
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar
- 1 bag frozen hash browns
- 1/2 cup milk
- Bell pepper
- Onion
Season lightly.
Slow cook until the center is set.
Because ham is already salty, taste carefully when seasoning.
Spicy Ham and Potato Casserole
Add:
- 1 diced jalapeño
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- Pepper Jack cheese
This gives the casserole mild heat.
For more spice, add sliced pickled jalapeños on top before serving.
Ranch Ham and Potato Casserole
Add approximately one tablespoon ranch seasoning to the sauce.
Use cheddar cheese.
Add chopped green onions.
This gives the casserole a familiar ranch-and-cheddar flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Ham Casserole
Reduce the cheddar slightly.
Increase Parmesan.
Add extra garlic.
Finish with chopped parsley.
This variation has a more savory, less sharp cheese flavor.
Ham and Swiss Potato Casserole
Swiss cheese is a classic partner for ham.
Replace half or all of the cheddar with Swiss.
Add a teaspoon Dijon mustard to the sauce.
The flavor becomes similar to ham-and-Swiss sandwiches or cordon bleu.
What to Serve with Ham and Potato Casserole
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Green Beans | Fresh contrast |
| Roasted Broccoli | Balances creamy casserole |
| Side Salad | Lightens the meal |
| Dinner Rolls | Great with creamy sauce |
| Roasted Carrots | Adds sweetness |
| Brussels Sprouts | Excellent with ham |
| Corn | Easy family side |
| Steamed Peas | Adds color |
| Garlic Bread | Rich comfort-food pairing |
| Tomato Salad | Adds acidity |
Best Complete Dinner
Serve a generous scoop of ham and potato casserole with green beans or roasted broccoli.
Add a simple salad if you want something fresh.
A warm dinner roll works well for scooping up extra sauce.
Because the casserole already contains protein, potatoes, cheese, and sauce, you do not need many complicated side dishes.
Perfect Recipe for Leftover Holiday Ham
This is one of the biggest reasons to save the recipe.
After Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Sunday dinner, leftover ham can become repetitive quickly.
Instead of serving the same slices again, chop the meat.
Use it in:
- Casseroles
- Soups
- Omelets
- Breakfast bakes
- Sandwiches
- Pasta
- Beans
A slow cooker casserole allows you to transform leftovers into a completely different meal.
How Much Leftover Ham Do You Need?
About 3–4 cups chopped ham works well for this recipe.
If you have less, use 2 cups and increase the potatoes slightly.
If you have more, you can use up to 5 cups, but the casserole will be saltier and more meat-heavy.
Balance is important.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can prepare many components ahead.
Chop the ham.
Slice the onion.
Shred the cheese.
Prepare the sauce.
Store everything separately in the refrigerator.
Slice the potatoes closer to cooking time to prevent discoloration.
If you must slice them early, keep them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator, then drain and dry before using.
Can You Assemble It the Night Before?
You can, but the potatoes may discolor slightly.
For the freshest texture, prepare everything except the potato layers in advance.
Assemble in the morning.
If using frozen hash browns, the casserole is much easier to assemble the night before.
Keep the uncooked casserole refrigerated until you are ready to cook.
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool promptly.
Transfer to airtight containers.
Refrigerate for approximately 3–4 days.
Because the casserole contains cooked ham, milk, cream cheese, and shredded cheese, keep it refrigerated.
Best Way to Reheat
Oven
Place leftovers in a covered baking dish.
Heat at 325°F / 165°C until hot.
Add a splash of milk if the sauce has become very thick.
Microwave
Place one serving on a microwave-safe plate.
Cover loosely.
Heat in short intervals.
Stir or rotate if possible.
Stovetop
For softer leftover casserole, heat gently in a saucepan with a small splash of milk.
Can You Freeze Ham and Potato Casserole?
Yes, but potatoes and dairy sauces can change texture slightly after freezing.
For best quality, freeze individual portions.
Cool completely.
Place in freezer-safe containers.
Freeze for approximately 1–2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently.
If the sauce looks separated, stir in a little milk while reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Common Mistake | Result | Better Method |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes cut too thick | Potatoes stay firm | Slice around 1/4 inch |
| Too much salt | Overly salty casserole | Season after tasting |
| Pre-shredded cheese only | Sauce may be less smooth | Grate cheese fresh |
| Too much broth | Watery casserole | Measure liquid carefully |
| Opening lid repeatedly | Longer cooking time | Keep lid closed |
| Adding frozen vegetables too early | Mushy vegetables | Add near the end |
| Sauce too thick initially | Potatoes cook unevenly | Keep sauce pourable |
| Overcooking cheese sauce | Grainy texture | Use gentle heat |
| Serving immediately | Sauce looks loose | Rest 10–15 minutes |
Troubleshooting Guide
My Potatoes Are Still Hard
They were probably sliced too thickly or need additional cooking time.
Continue cooking until easily pierced with a fork.
My Casserole Is Too Watery
Remove the lid and let it sit.
The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Next time, reduce broth slightly.
My Casserole Is Too Thick
Add a small splash of warm milk.
Stir gently.
My Casserole Is Too Salty
Ham and cheese are probably providing most of the salt.
Add unsalted potatoes, milk, or sour cream to balance it.
My Cheese Looks Grainy
The sauce may have been overheated.
Use moderate heat and freshly grated cheese.
My Ham Seems Dry
Make sure it remains surrounded by sauce rather than sitting only on top for hours.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ham Casserole
Use fully cooked ham.
Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture.
Slice potatoes evenly.
Do not oversalt.
Grate cheese fresh.
Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor.
Add vegetables near the end if they cook quickly.
Keep the lid closed.
Let the casserole rest before serving.
Store leftovers with plenty of sauce.
Use leftover ham within several different meals rather than eating the same dish repeatedly.
Nutrition Estimate
Approximate values per serving when divided into 8 portions:
| Nutrition | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420–520 |
| Protein | 24–30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32–40 g |
| Fat | 23–30 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
| Sugar | 4–7 g |
| Serving Size | About 1/8 casserole |
Actual nutrition varies according to ham, cheese, potatoes, and sauce ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I make with chopped ham in a slow cooker?
Chopped ham works well in potato casseroles, soups, beans, cabbage dishes, breakfast casseroles, and creamy pasta dishes.
Is this the exact recipe shown in the image?
The image shows a large amount of chopped ham placed inside a slow cooker. This recipe is inspired by that preparation and turns the ham into a complete creamy potato casserole rather than claiming to reproduce an unseen original recipe.
Does ham need to be cooked before going into the slow cooker?
For this recipe, use fully cooked ham.
Can I use leftover spiral ham?
Yes.
Can I use ham steak?
Yes.
Can I use deli ham?
Yes, preferably thick-cut.
Can I use frozen ham?
Thaw it completely in the refrigerator first.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent.
Can I use russet potatoes?
Yes.
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Absolutely.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, especially when using Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
Can I add broccoli?
Yes. Add it near the end.
Can I add peas?
Yes.
Can I add corn?
Absolutely.
Can I add mushrooms?
Yes.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, but reduce extra salt.
Can I use Swiss cheese?
Yes. Ham and Swiss are excellent together.
Can I use Pepper Jack?
Yes, especially for a spicy version.
Can I add sour cream?
Yes. Stir it in near the end for extra richness.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes. Increase the milk slightly and use additional shredded cheese.
Can I use evaporated milk?
Yes. It creates a rich, creamy sauce.
Can I use heavy cream?
Yes, but the casserole will be richer.
How long does it cook on LOW?
Approximately 5–6 hours.
How long on HIGH?
Approximately 2½–3½ hours.
How do I know it is ready?
The potatoes should be completely fork-tender and the sauce hot and creamy.
Why are my potatoes still hard?
They may be too thick or the slow cooker may need more time.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes.
How long do leftovers keep?
About 3–4 days refrigerated.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, although the potato and sauce texture may change slightly.
What is the best side dish?
Green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or a fresh salad all work well.
Budget-Friendly Tips
This recipe is particularly economical when made with leftover ham.
Instead of buying another protein, you can stretch a few cups of cooked ham into six to eight servings.
Use store-brand potatoes.
Buy block cheese and shred it yourself.
Use whatever vegetables are already in the freezer.
If ham is expensive, use more potatoes and only 2–3 cups ham.
The casserole will still have plenty of smoky flavor.
Leftover Ham Meal Plan
One large ham can become several completely different meals.
Meal 1: Ham and potato casserole.
Meal 2: Ham and bean soup.
Meal 3: Ham breakfast casserole.
Meal 4: Ham and cheese sandwiches.
Meal 5: Ham and cabbage soup.
This helps reduce food waste while keeping dinners from feeling repetitive.
Ad-Friendly Article Structure
| Article Position | Suggested Placement |
|---|---|
| After Introduction | Natural first ad placement |
| After Recipe Overview | Second placement |
| After Ingredient Guide | Third placement |
| Before Main Instructions | High-engagement placement |
| After Cooking Instructions | Mid-article placement |
| Before Variations | Natural content break |
| Before Storage | Additional placement |
| Before FAQs | Strong late-article placement |
| Before Final Thoughts | Optional placement |
Keep the main cooking instructions together so readers can easily follow the preparation without losing their place.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Casserole is one of the easiest ways to turn chopped ham into a complete, satisfying family dinner.
The ham provides smoky, salty flavor.
The potatoes make the meal hearty.
Onions and garlic create a savory base.
Cream cheese and milk give the sauce richness.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt into a smooth, cheesy finish.
And the slow cooker brings everything together while requiring very little attention.
It is also an incredibly practical leftover recipe.
Instead of reheating slices of holiday ham again and again, chop the meat and transform it into something completely different.
You can keep the casserole classic.
Add broccoli.
Add peas.
Use hash browns.
Add bacon.
Swap cheddar for Swiss.
Make it spicy with Pepper Jack.
Or skip the cream sauce and turn the chopped ham into a cabbage or bean soup instead.
For the best results, slice the potatoes evenly, avoid adding too much salt, use freshly shredded cheese when possible, and allow the finished casserole to rest before serving.
Serve it with green beans, roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or a simple salad and you have a complete comfort-food dinner that works for busy weeknights, Sunday supper, meal prep, Easter leftovers, Christmas leftovers, and family gatherings.