Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes are the perfect comfort food for busy days. This creamy meal is rich, filling and very easy to make.

I love making homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes after holiday dinners because leftover ham works so well. Every bite is soft, cheesy and full of flavor.

If you want a simple family dinner, homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes will quickly become one of your favorite slow cooker recipes.

Why I Love Making This Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes

This recipe always reminds me of family dinners. We often made it after a holiday meal. Leftover ham never went to waste.

I also love how easy this recipe is. The slow cooker does most of the work. I can prepare everything in the morning and enjoy dinner later without stress.

The potatoes become soft and creamy. The cheese melts perfectly. The ham adds a smoky and savory flavor that everyone enjoys. It is also budget-friendly. Simple ingredients create a meal that feels warm and special.

Equipment List

  • Slow cooker or crockpot (6-quart)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cooking spray
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Recipe Overview

  • Recipe Name: Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes
  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
  • Course: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American
  • Calories: About 420 kcal per serving
Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients You Need for Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Crockpot

Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning much easier. Set the slow cooker aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

2. Slice the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to keep every slice about the same thickness. Even slices cook evenly and create a creamy texture throughout the dish.

3. Make the Cream Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, flour, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder and parsley. Mix until smooth with no flour lumps remaining.

4. Layer the Ingredients

Place one layer of potatoes into the crockpot. Add some onions, diced ham, shredded cheese and a little cream sauce. Repeat these layers until every ingredient has been used.

5. Finish the Top Layer

Pour the remaining cream sauce over the top. Sprinkle the last handful of cheese evenly across the potatoes. This creates a rich and cheesy top layer.

6. Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for about 3½ hours. The potatoes should become soft when pierced with a fork.

7. Rest Before Serving

Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Read More: Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Recipe

Expert Tips & Variations

  • Slice potatoes evenly for better cooking.
  • Yukon Gold potatoes stay creamy and tender.
  • Russet potatoes also work well.
  • Add cooked bacon for extra flavor.
  • Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Add smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
  • Stir in fresh thyme for extra freshness.
  • Use leftover holiday ham.
  • Do not overfill the crockpot.
  • Let the dish rest before serving.
  • Add frozen peas during the last 30 minutes.
  • Top with chopped green onions before serving.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Scalloped potatoes have been enjoyed for many generations. The dish became popular because potatoes were affordable and easy to find. Families often baked sliced potatoes with cream and cheese for comforting meals.

Later, slow cookers made this recipe even easier. Adding leftover ham became a smart way to create a complete dinner without wasting food.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Try serving it with:

Occasion or Event Ideas

Serve it for:

  • Family dinners
  • Sunday lunch
  • Christmas leftovers
  • Easter dinner
  • Potluck parties
  • Fall gatherings
  • Winter comfort meals
  • Busy weekday dinners

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat in the microwave until hot.
  • Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
  • Add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes thick.
  • Stir gently before serving again.

Nutrition Information

NutrientAmount Per Serving
Calories420 kcal
Protein23 g
Carbohydrates31 g
Fat23 g
Saturated Fat12 g
Fiber3 g
Sugar5 g
Sodium790 mg
Calcium310 mg

Health Benefits

This recipe provides protein from the ham and cheese, helping you stay full longer. Potatoes offer potassium, vitamin C, and fiber when enjoyed as part of a balanced meal. Dairy products supply calcium for healthy bones.

You can also add vegetables like broccoli or peas to increase vitamins and minerals. Making this meal at home lets you control the ingredients and reduce extra salt if needed.

Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes are the perfect comfort food for busy days. This creamy meal is rich, filling and very easy to make.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked ham diced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Cooking spray

Instructions
  

Prepare the Crockpot

  • Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning much easier. Set the slow cooker aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Slice the Potatoes

  • Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to keep every slice about the same thickness. Even slices cook evenly and create a creamy texture throughout the dish.

Make the Cream Sauce

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, flour, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder and parsley. Mix until smooth with no flour lumps remaining.

Layer the Ingredients

  • Place one layer of potatoes into the crockpot. Add some onions, diced ham, shredded cheese and a little cream sauce. Repeat these layers until every ingredient has been used.

Finish the Top Layer

  • Pour the remaining cream sauce over the top. Sprinkle the last handful of cheese evenly across the potatoes. This creates a rich and cheesy top layer.

Slow Cook

  • Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for about 3½ hours. The potatoes should become soft when pierced with a fork.

Rest Before Serving

  • Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes evenly for better cooking.
  • Yukon Gold potatoes stay creamy and tender.
  • Russet potatoes also work well.
  • Add cooked bacon for extra flavor.
  • Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Add smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
  • Stir in fresh thyme for extra freshness.
  • Use leftover holiday ham.
  • Do not overfill the crockpot.
  • Let the dish rest before serving.
  • Add frozen peas during the last 30 minutes.
  • Top with chopped green onions before serving.
Keyword Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

FAQs about Homemade Crockpot Ham Scalloped Potatoes

Can I use frozen diced potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes if needed. Fresh potatoes usually give the best texture, but frozen potatoes save time. Reduce the cooking time slightly and check for tenderness before serving.

What is the best cheese for homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes?

Sharp cheddar is my favorite because it melts well and adds bold flavor. You can also mix cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colb or Gruyère for an even creamier and richer cheese sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe the night before?

Yes. Assemble all the layers in the crockpot insert, cover it and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, place it into the slow cooker and cook as directed for an easy dinner.

Why are my potatoes still firm after cooking?

This usually happens if the potato slices are too thick. Slice them thinly and evenly. Also, avoid opening the crockpot often because heat escapes and increases the cooking time.

Can I make this recipe without ham?

Absolutely. Leave out the ham for a vegetarian version or replace it with cooked chicken, turkey or sautéed mushrooms. The creamy potatoes still taste delicious with many different ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Homemade crockpot ham scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy and full of comforting flavors. This simple slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy families and makes great use of leftover ham.

With easy ingredients and simple steps, anyone can prepare this delicious meal. Try it once, share it with loved ones and enjoy a warm homemade dinner that everyone will remember.

Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.