Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes is the definition of cozy, no-fuss comfort food. It is the kind of meal that slowly fills the kitchen with warmth and savory aroma while you go about your day. Tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce come together effortlessly in the slow cooker, creating a dish that feels hearty and satisfying without requiring constant attention.
What I love most about this recipe is how forgiving and practical it is. I have made it using leftover holiday ham, and it turned simple ingredients into a complete, comforting meal. The crockpot does all the work, gently cooking the potatoes until they are soft and infused with flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays, relaxed weekends, or when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser that delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes are the backbone of this dish. Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well because they soften beautifully while holding their shape.
Cooked ham provides savory, smoky flavor and makes this recipe especially convenient for using leftovers.
Onion adds sweetness and depth as it slowly cooks into the sauce.
Garlic enhances the overall savoriness without overpowering the dish.
Butter contributes richness and helps create a smooth, comforting base.
Heavy cream forms the creamy foundation of the sauce, coating the potatoes evenly.
Chicken broth adds moisture and savory balance, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy.
Cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, adding sharpness and extra comfort.
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and ham.
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and balance.
Paprika provides subtle color and mild smoky notes.
Fresh parsley offers a fresh finish and visual contrast before serving.
Directions
Lightly grease the crockpot insert. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom, followed by half of the diced ham and onions. Sprinkle lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions. Scatter garlic evenly over the top.
In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the butter, cream, and chicken broth together until combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt fully.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe adapts easily to different preferences. For extra richness, you can stir in cream cheese during the final hour of cooking, creating an even thicker, silkier sauce. I tested this variation for a winter dinner, and it made the dish especially indulgent.
Vegetables can be added for balance and color. Green beans, peas, or diced carrots blend well without altering the overall flavor. If you prefer a slightly lighter version, replace part of the cream with milk while keeping the broth for flavor.
Different cheeses also work nicely. Gruyère adds nuttiness, while mozzarella creates extra creaminess. For a subtle kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or Dijon mustard can be stirred into the sauce.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes is a filling dish that provides protein from ham and energy from potatoes. The creamy elements add richness, making it best enjoyed in balanced portions. Adjusting dairy quantities can help tailor it to your dietary needs.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Slice potatoes evenly
This ensures consistent cooking throughout.
Layer thoughtfully
Even layering helps flavors distribute evenly.
Avoid lifting the lid
Heat loss can slow cooking time.
Add cheese near the end
This prevents it from becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I use raw potatoes?
Yes, raw potatoes cook perfectly in the crockpot.
What type of ham works best?
Fully cooked ham, including leftovers, works best.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well the next day.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots or green beans are good additions.
What cheese melts best?
Cheddar or Gruyère work very well.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Add a little cream cheese or cook uncovered briefly.
Is this suitable as a main dish?
Yes, it is hearty enough to stand alone.
Conclusion
Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes is a comforting, slow-cooked classic that turns simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal. With minimal preparation and rich, familiar flavors, it is a dependable recipe that fits perfectly into busy schedules and cozy family dinners alike.
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