Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon is the perfect dish for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting, hearty meal. With tender chunks of ham, potatoes, smoky bacon, and flavorful vegetables all cooked in a rich broth, this stew is easy to prepare and filled with cozy flavors. Let your slow cooker do the work and come home to a warm, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked ham (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, then crumble the bacon and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, remove most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker

1. Add the cubed ham, potatoes, carrots, celery, sautéed onion and garlic, and crumbled bacon to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Thicken (Optional)

1. Stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, and stir it into the stew along with the cream.

Step 5: Serve

• Once the stew is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or biscuits for a complete meal.

Cooking Notes

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this stew, as they break down slightly during cooking, giving the stew a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option if you prefer them to stay more intact.
• Creaminess: For an extra creamy stew, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, but the texture will be slightly lighter.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, be sure to use the cornstarch slurry during the last half hour of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker to achieve a thicker consistency.

Variations

Vegetable Ham and Potato Stew

• Add 1 cup of frozen peas or chopped green beans during the last hour of cooking for extra veggies.

Cheesy Ham and Potato Stew

• Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.

Spicy Ham and Potato Stew

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat in your stew.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?

Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Can I Freeze Ham and Potato Stew?

Yes, you can freeze the stew, but it’s best to leave out the cream until reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and add the cream before serving.

What Should I Serve With This Stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, biscuits, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I Use Uncooked Ham?

If using uncooked ham, increase the cooking time to ensure the ham is fully cooked before serving. It’s best to use pre-cooked ham for simplicity and flavor.

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time you need a warm, satisfying meal. The smoky bacon, tender ham, and creamy broth combine beautifully to create a dish that’s full of rich, savory flavors. Customize it to your liking with additional veggies or cheese, and enjoy a bowl of comfort with your loved ones.

Enjoy making and sharing this comforting stew, and savor every spoonful of its warm, hearty goodness!