Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham & Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham & Potato Casserole

There is something deeply comforting about a slow cooker meal that fills the house with warmth while quietly cooking itself. This cheesy ham and potato casserole is one of those recipes that feels nostalgic, cozy, and satisfying from the very first bite. It is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without needing an invitation.

Thinly sliced potatoes become tender and creamy as they cook low and slow, soaking up a rich, savory sauce. The ham adds a salty, hearty bite that balances the creaminess, while layers of melted cheese bring everything together into one indulgent, comforting casserole.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is how effortless it is. With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days, holidays, or relaxed weekends when you want comfort food without standing over the stove.

This dish is versatile enough to serve as a main course with a simple salad or as a hearty side alongside roasted vegetables. It reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers and meal planning.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours
Total Time: 6¼–7¼ hours

Ingredients

• 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

Instructions

1. Spray the inside of the slow cooker generously with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Top with half of the diced ham, onion, garlic, and shredded cheeses.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Pour half of the sauce evenly over the first layer.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, cheese, and sauce.
7. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
8. Turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Variations

• Add frozen peas or corn during the last hour of cooking for extra color and texture.
• Substitute Swiss cheese for a classic ham-and-Swiss flavor profile.
• Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a deeper, earthier taste.
• Add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for subtle herbal depth.

Tips

• Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Yukon gold potatoes create a creamier texture, while russets are heartier and more traditional.
• For extra richness, stir in a small amount of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Letting the casserole rest before serving helps thicken the sauce and improves texture.