Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck. This creamy casserole features tender layers of sliced potatoes, savory ham, and a rich cheese sauce that all come together beautifully in the slow cooker. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Just set it and forget it, and come back to a comforting meal that’s ready to serve.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the diced ham, half of the sliced onion, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, onion, and cheeses.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, flour, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layers of potatoes, ham, and cheese in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once cooked, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the Ham and Potato Au Gratin hot, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Ham and Potato Au Gratin
- Even Slicing: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes thinly and as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer works well for this task.
- Cheese Selection: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar works particularly well to add depth to the dish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if using the high setting. Overcooking can cause the cream to separate.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: Add 1 cup of frozen peas or sliced bell peppers to add more vegetables and color to the dish.
- Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Bacon Twist: Add crumbled cooked bacon along with the ham for an extra savory twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use raw ham instead of cooked ham?
A: It’s best to use cooked ham for this recipe since raw ham may not cook thoroughly in the slow cooker. Leftover ham or pre-cooked ham works perfectly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Ham and Potato Au Gratin?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply looking for an easy dinner idea, this dish delivers rich flavors and hearty satisfaction. Just set your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, well-rounded meal that everyone will love!