Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes

Rich, cozy, and slow-cooked to tender perfection — the kind of supper that tastes like it’s always been part of the family.

There are certain meals that feel like they’ve been passed down quietly, without ever needing a recipe card. Creamy Crockpot Ham & Potatoes is one of those dishes. It’s the kind of meal you make when the house is busy, the weather is cool, or you just want something dependable and comforting waiting for you at dinnertime.

This recipe is simple in the best way — tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy sauce that gently bubbles away in the crockpot until everything comes together just right. No rushing, no hovering over the stove. Just honest food that fills bellies and brings everyone back to the table.

🛒 Ingredient Overview

Diced Ham (2–3 cups)

Leftover ham works beautifully here, making this recipe perfect after holidays. The ham adds saltiness and deep savory flavor throughout the dish.

Potatoes (4–5 cups, diced)

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal. They soften as they cook and naturally help thicken the creamy sauce.

Onion (1 small, diced)

Adds a gentle sweetness and depth that builds flavor quietly in the background.

Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)

Creates the creamy base of the dish. Either option works — mushroom adds earthiness, chicken keeps things classic.

Milk (1 cup)

Thins the soup just enough to let everything cook evenly while staying rich and comforting.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1–1½ cups)

Optional but highly recommended for that cozy, cheesy finish.

Seasonings

Black pepper
Garlic powder (optional)
Salt (use lightly — ham is already salty)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

⭐ Step 1 — Prepare the Crockpot

Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot or use a liner for easy cleanup.

⭐ Step 2 — Add Potatoes

Place the diced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the crockpot.
Season lightly with black pepper and garlic powder.

⭐ Step 3 — Add Ham & Onion

Scatter the diced ham and onion evenly over the potatoes.

⭐ Step 4 — Make the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:

Cream soup
Milk

Pour the mixture evenly over the ham and potatoes.

⭐ Step 5 — Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

LOW: 6–7 hours (best texture)
HIGH: 3–4 hours

Cook until potatoes are fork-tender.

⭐ Step 6 — Add Cheese

During the last 20–30 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Cover and allow it to melt into the sauce.

⭐ Step 7 — Stir & Serve

Gently stir to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot and enjoy 🥔🍖

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover holiday ham?
Yes — this recipe is perfect for it.

2. What potatoes work best?
Russet or Yukon Gold.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — it reheats beautifully.

4. Is it very salty?
Use low-sodium soup if your ham is salty.

5. Can I add vegetables?
Peas or carrots work well.

6. Can I make it cheesier?
Absolutely — add more cheese.

7. Can I cook on LOW only?
Yes — LOW gives the creamiest texture.

8. Can I add bacon?
Yes — cooked bacon is delicious.

9. Does this freeze well?
It can, but texture is best fresh.

10. Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes — for extra richness.

11. Can I use cream of celery soup?
Yes — great flavor option.

12. Will the sauce thicken?
Yes, naturally as it cooks.

13. Can I use raw ham?
Use fully cooked ham only.

14. Is this kid-friendly?
Very much so.

15. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, with a large crockpot.

16. Can I add garlic cloves?
Yes — add early for mild flavor.

17. Can I skip cheese?
Yes — still creamy and delicious.

18. Does it need stirring?
Only once near the end.

19. Can I serve it as a side?
Yes — pairs well with roasted meats.

20. What should I serve with it?
Simple salad or warm bread.

💡 20 Helpful Tips

1. Dice potatoes evenly.
2. Use LOW heat for creaminess.
3. Season lightly at first.
4. Stir gently at the end.
5. Use crockpot liners for easy cleanup.
6. Add cheese late to avoid separation.
7. Taste before serving.
8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
9. Yukon Golds give buttery texture.
10. Milk keeps it smooth, not thick.
11. Leftovers thicken overnight.
12. Add splash of milk when reheating.
13. Keep warm setting for serving.
14. Use low-sodium soup if needed.
15. Great use for leftover ham.
16. Simple seasoning works best.
17. Don’t over-stir potatoes.
18. Cheese adds comfort but isn’t required.
19. Perfect for cold evenings.
20. This recipe is meant to be gentle.

🧊 10 Storage & Reheating Tips

Store in airtight containers
Refrigerate up to 4 days
Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
Add milk if sauce thickens
Stir halfway when reheating
Avoid boiling after reheating
Freeze only if necessary
Thaw overnight before reheating
Reheat only what you’ll eat
Serve hot for best texture

🔐 20 Recipe Secrets

Potatoes naturally thicken the sauce.
Ham seasons the dish as it cooks.
LOW heat keeps dairy smooth.
Cream soups create structure.
Cheese adds richness at the end.
Leftover ham works best.
Milk balances heaviness.
Simple flavors shine here.
Minimal stirring protects texture.
This dish improves overnight.
Comfort food should feel calm.
No fancy steps needed.
Family-friendly every time.
Perfect for busy days.
Classic recipes never fail.
One pot keeps things peaceful.
Season at the end for balance.
Serve warm, not piping hot.
This dish feeds both body and soul.
Sometimes simple is everything.