Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
These Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham layer tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy cheddar sauce in an easy slow-cooker meal. It’s hearty, comforting, and a delicious way to use leftover ham.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, potlucks, or using up holiday leftovers.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 5½–6½ hours on low
Servings: 6–8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender potatoes in a creamy cheddar sauce
- Savory ham makes it a filling one-pot meal
- Easy slow-cooker preparation
- A tasty way to use leftover ham
- Simple ingredients
- Great for family dinners and potlucks
- Easy to customize with vegetables or different cheeses
- No oven required
- Leftovers reheat well
- Comforting enough to serve as a main dish
Ingredients
Potatoes and Ham
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Creamy Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme, optional
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them about ⅛ inch thick. Try to keep the slices even so they cook at the same rate.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and thyme, if using.
Taste before adding salt; ham, cheese, and condensed soup can already be salty.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Arrange about one-third of the potato slices in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Scatter some ham, onion, and cheddar over the potatoes, then spoon over some of the sauce.
Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the remaining sauce. Reserve about ½ cup cheddar for the top.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Keep the lid on as much as possible so the slow cooker maintains its heat.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Cheese
During the final 20–30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top.
Cover and cook until the cheese has melted.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and let the potatoes rest for about 10 minutes. This gives the sauce time to settle and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well; russets become softer and make the sauce thicker.
- Keep the potato slices fairly thin so they cook through in the slow cooker.
- Avoid lifting the lid repeatedly, which can add cooking time.
- Check for tenderness with a fork before serving.
- Taste the sauce before adding salt because ham and cheese can be salty.
- If the potatoes are tender but the sauce seems thin, cook uncovered on high for 15–20 minutes.
What Kind of Ham Should I Use?
Use leftover baked ham, cooked diced ham, or a ham steak cut into small pieces.
If using a ham bone, remove the meat first and save the bone for soup; it won’t fit well in this layered potato dish.
Which Potatoes Work Best?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a good choice because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture. Russet potatoes also work, but they soften more and may make the sauce thicker.
Delicious Variations
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Add ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Gruyère along with the cheddar.
Ham and Broccoli Potatoes
Stir in 1½ cups small broccoli florets during the final hour of cooking so they stay tender without becoming mushy.
Bacon Cheddar Potatoes
Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers.
Garlic Herb Potatoes
Add one minced garlic clove and ½ teaspoon dried rosemary to the sauce.
Cream of Mushroom Version
Replace the cream of chicken soup with condensed cream of mushroom soup.
Can I Make It Ahead?
You can slice the potatoes and dice the ham a few hours ahead. Keep the potatoes covered with cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning, then drain and pat them dry before layering.
For the best texture, assemble and cook the dish the same day rather than leaving raw sliced potatoes in the sauce overnight.
Storage
Let leftovers cool, then transfer them to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to four days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm a larger portion covered in a 325°F oven until hot throughout. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.
Can You Freeze Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, though the potatoes may soften and the sauce may change texture slightly after thawing.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my potatoes still firm?
They may be sliced too thick, or the slow cooker may need more time. Continue cooking until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes. Thaw and drain them well first. They may cook faster than fresh potatoes, so begin checking for tenderness earlier.
Can I use a different condensed soup?
Yes. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well.
Can I add more ham?
Yes. You can add another ½ cup, but avoid packing the layers too tightly; the potatoes need room to heat evenly.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Cook uncovered on high for 15–20 minutes after the potatoes are tender. The sauce will also thicken slightly as the dish rests.
Can I make this without cheese?
Yes. The dish will be less rich but still creamy from the soup and milk. You can also use a smaller amount of cheese.
Pro Tips
Slice the potatoes evenly, layer them with the sauce so they’re well coated, and keep the lid closed while cooking. Check tenderness near the end, then add the reserved cheddar and let the dish rest before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham make a comforting, hearty meal with tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheddar sauce. Serve them on their own or alongside a simple green salad for an easy family dinner.
