Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe – Slow‑cooker comfort that smells like Sunday

Introduction

The kitchen smells like buttered potatoes and warm cheddar — a slow, cozy perfume that always makes me slow my pace. Today I’m sharing my slow-cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole, a dish I bring out when the house needs something honest and filling. This always takes me back to Sunday dinners. Also, if you like easy casseroles, you might enjoy my take on a cheesy bacon and hash brown casserole for a crispy side.

Why You’ll Love This

• Slow-cooker ease: assemble in minutes, hands-off all afternoon.
• Uses leftovers: economical and satisfying for a crowd.
• Kid-approved gooey cheese with soft, tender potatoes.
• Flexible: swap cheeses or add veggies without stress.

Quick Recipe Snapshot

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 6–7 hours (low)
• Total time: ~6 hours 20 minutes
• Skill level: Easy
• Taste: savory + creamy + slightly smoky
  This slow-cooked dish is forgiving and reliable, and you can trust it to come out tender and cheesy every time; for another warming bowl, try my cheesy beef and potato soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced (russet or Yukon gold)
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Nonstick cooking spray

Chef notes:

• Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.
• Yukon gold = creamier texture.
• Pre-shred cheese to melt smoothly.

How to Make It

1. First, spray the slow cooker well with nonstick cooking spray so the casserole releases easily.
2. Then layer half of the thin potato slices on the bottom, overlapping like roof tiles so they cook evenly.
3. Next, scatter half of the diced ham over the potatoes, and sprinkle half of both cheeses on top; you’ll already smell the cheese warming.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheeses so the top gets a good cheesy blanket.
5. Meanwhile, whisk the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth, and then pour that mixture evenly over the layered potatoes.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours; you’ll know it’s done when a fork slides through the center potato slice and the edges look slightly golden and bubbling.
7. Finally, let it rest 10 minutes before serving so the sauce sets a little; the casserole will hold its shape when you scoop.

Also, if you want a similar slow-cooker layering method with a different protein, try my cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole for ideas.

Kitchen Tips (From My Kitchen)

1. Time-saver: Slice potatoes with a mandoline or sharp knife ahead and store in cold water to prevent browning.
2. Common mistake + fix: If you pile potatoes too thick, the center may stay firm—so slice thin and overlap evenly for even cooking.
3. Simple variation: Stir in a pinch of thyme or top with a little smoked paprika for a warm, smoky note.

Serving Ideas

• Weeknight dinner: serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
• Brunch: spoon onto plates and top with a fried egg for richness.
• Holiday side: cut into squares and bring to the table for a hearty addition.
• Casual potluck: keep it warm in the slow cooker and garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
  Try a light pickle or apple slaw on the side to cut the richness.

Also consider pairing with a chunky potato soup for a full, cozy spread.

Storing & Leftovers

• Fridge: Store covered up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Freeze portions up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a 325°F oven or in a covered skillet to keep edges from drying.
  Leftover idea: Turn warmed leftovers into a hearty sandwich or bowl with greens.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes — assemble in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking. Let it sit at room temp 30 minutes before starting.

Q: Can I substitute the cream soup?
A: You can use homemade white sauce instead, but expect a slightly thinner texture; adjust salt if you go that route.

Q: How do I know it’s done?
A: Pierce the center potato with a fork; it should slide through with no resistance and the top should bubble gently.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, individually portion for best texture; reheat from thawed so the sauce warms evenly.

In one of my tests, Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole kept its flavor well after refrigeration and rewarmed nicely.

Final Thoughts

I love how simple ingredients turn into something that feels like a hug on a plate. So, give it a go, tweak the cheese to your taste, and make it your own — it’ll become a go-to. Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

Conclusion

For another slow-cooker twist, check this detailed, scratch-made version at Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole (Scratch-Made!) | PWWB.
Also, compare techniques and tips with a trusted recipe at Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe – Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

A comforting slow-cooker casserole with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a gooey cheese topping that will remind you of Sunday dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Brunch, Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced (russet or Yukon gold) Yukon gold for creamier texture
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced Use leftover ham for economy
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Pre-shredded cheese melts smoothly
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Can substitute with homemade white sauce for a thinner texture
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for bigger flavor
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika Simple variation: Add thyme or smoked paprika for flavor
• Nonstick cooking spray For coating the slow cooker

Method

 

Preparation

1. Spray the slow cooker well with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer half of the thin potato slices on the bottom, overlapping like roof tiles.
3. Scatter half of the diced ham over the potatoes, and sprinkle half of both cheeses on top.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheeses.
5. Whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered potatoes.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until a fork slides through the center potato slice easily.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

To save time, slice potatoes ahead and store in water. If using too many potatoes in the layers, ensure they are sliced thin for even cooking.