If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty dish, look no further than crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham. This classic recipe combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes with savory ham, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Therefore, it is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This dish offers a perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Moreover, using a crockpot ensures the flavors meld beautifully while saving you time and effort. Read on to discover why this dish deserves a spot on your meal rotation and how to perfect it.
What Are Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are a traditional dish made from thinly sliced potatoes layered with a creamy sauce. Often baked, the dish is known for its rich texture and melt-in-your-mouth appeal. In particular, adding ham to this mix elevates it to a complete meal.
Key Characteristics of Scalloped Potatoes:
- Thinly sliced potatoes for even cooking.
- A creamy base, often made from milk or cream.
- Layers of cheese for added flavor.
In contrast to the oven-baked version, when made in a crockpot, this dish takes on a new level of convenience without compromising its signature creamy texture.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Preparing crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham in a slow cooker offers numerous advantages. Here’s why this method is a game-changer:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Set it and forget it. The crockpot handles everything, freeing you for other tasks.
- Even Cooking: The slow and steady heat ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the creamy flavors.
- Enhanced Flavor: Long cooking times allow the ham, potatoes, and sauce to meld into a cohesive, flavorful dish.
Additionally, Using a crockpot also means fewer dishes, as you can prepare and cook in one pot. For more tips and tricks on making the most of your slow cooker, check out this comprehensive guide to slow cooking from The Spruce Eats.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
To make the perfect crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, you’ll need a handful of staple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture.
- Ham: Diced or cubed ham adds a savory contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for a robust flavor.
- Cream Sauce: A combination of milk, heavy cream, and flour for thickening.
- Onion: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder for a flavor boost.
In addition, If you enjoy hearty dishes like this, you may also love our recipe for Delicious Crockpot Hashbrown Casserole, another creamy and satisfying slow-cooked favorite.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish.
- Crumbled bacon for extra smokiness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Ham
Follow this easy guide to prepare crockpot cheesy potatoes and ham without any fuss.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes for even cooking.
- Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces.
- Grate the cheese and measure out your cream sauce ingredients.
2. Layer the Ingredients
- Grease the inside of your crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Start with a layer of potatoes, followed by ham, cheese, and sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
3. Cook
- Set the crockpot on low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain consistent heat.
4. Serve
- Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
For a twist, consider pairing this recipe with our Easy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole, which provides a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy scalloped potatoes.
Layering Tips for Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Mastering crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is easier with these tips:
- Use a Mandoline: For uniform potato slices, a mandoline is invaluable.
- Don’t Skip Greasing: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Use a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or Gruyère.
- Layer Strategically: Distribute ingredients evenly to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking: Check your potatoes for doneness to avoid mushiness.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Nutritional Benefits
While crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is undeniably indulgent, it also offers some nutritional value:
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and vitamin C.
- Ham: A good source of protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and vitamin D.
Portion Control:
For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and milk, and increase the proportion of vegetables.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some excellent serving suggestions:
- Fresh Vegetables: Serve it alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or a crisp garden salad to balance the rich flavors.
- Bread: A crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Meats: If you’re hosting a larger meal, pair this dish with roasted chicken or turkey for a complete spread.
- Brunch Options: It also works well as a hearty brunch item, accompanied by scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions of crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham with a bowl of soup or a light sandwich. The dish’s creamy texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion.
For another comfort food classic, try our Cheeseburger Pasta, which complements this recipe perfectly for family dinners.
Variations for Scalloped Potatoes with Ham in a Slow Cooker
There are many ways to customize crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Cheese Selection: Use sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add layers of sliced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
- Meat Options: Substitute ham with cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage for a different protein.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or zucchini.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream or almond milk with a dairy-free cheese substitute for a lactose-free option.
Feeling adventurous? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Perfect Beef Stir Fry for another flavorful dinner idea.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes
Proper storage and reheating are key to preserving the quality of crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Use the oven or microwave to reheat. In the oven, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes. For the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Avoid overheating, as it can cause the sauce to separate or the potatoes to become mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your crockpot scalloped potatoes with ham recipe is a success:
- Uneven Slicing: Ensure all potato slices are uniform in thickness to promote even cooking.
- Overcooking: Prolonged cooking can make the potatoes mushy and the sauce overly thick.
- Skipping the Sauce: Mixing the sauce thoroughly before layering ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Using Raw Ham: Pre-cook the ham to avoid an undercooked or rubbery texture.
- Not Greasing the Crockpot: Always grease the crockpot to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Being mindful of these common mistakes ensures a perfectly cooked dish every time.
Tools and Equipment
To make crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, you’ll need the following tools:
- Crockpot: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
- Mandoline or Sharp Knife: For evenly sliced potatoes.
- Mixing Bowl: To prepare the creamy sauce.
- Spatula: For layering the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise measurements of ingredients.
These tools streamline the cooking process and help achieve the best results.
History of the Dish
Scalloped potatoes have a rich culinary history rooted in Europe. The term “scalloped” refers to the method of layering thinly sliced potatoes with cream or milk. The dish became popular in the United States in the 19th century, evolving to include additional ingredients like ham for added flavor and protein.
The introduction of the crockpot in the 20th century revolutionized how scalloped potatoes are prepared, making it more convenient for busy households. Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is now a beloved comfort food, blending traditional techniques with modern convenience.
FAQ
Do you have to parboil potatoes before a slow cooker?
No, you don’t need to parboil potatoes before using a slow cooker for crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham. The slow cooker’s low and steady heat ensures the potatoes cook evenly without pre-boiling. However, slicing them thinly helps them cook faster and more uniformly.
What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?
The main difference lies in the cheese. Scalloped potatoes are traditionally made with a cream or milk-based sauce, while au gratin potatoes include layers of cheese in addition to the cream. This makes au gratin potatoes richer and cheesier than scalloped potatoes.
Why is my scalloped potatoes and ham watery?
Watery scalloped potatoes often result from excess moisture in the potatoes or insufficient thickening of the sauce. To avoid this, use starchy potatoes like Russets and ensure your sauce contains enough thickening agents, such as flour or cornstarch. Cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes can also help reduce excess liquid.
Do you need to soak potatoes before making scalloped potatoes?
Soaking potatoes is not necessary for crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham. However, rinsing the slices can remove excess starch, which helps prevent the dish from becoming overly gummy. If you prefer soaking, make sure to dry the slices thoroughly before layering them in the crockpot.
Conclusion
In Conclusion Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is a comforting and versatile dish that brings a hearty, homemade touch to any meal. By following the serving suggestions, experimenting with variations, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and customizable. Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure leftovers retain their quality, while the right tools simplify the cooking process. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this recipe offers a delightful taste of culinary history and modern convenience.