Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes: The Easiest & Most Delicious Recipe

The ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary

There’s nothing quite like walking into your home after a long day and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of a home-cooked meal that’s been simmering away without any effort on your part. That’s the magic of this Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe—it combines tender potatoes and savory ham in a dish that practically makes itself.

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s your ultimate guide to making perfect Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes, complete with expert tips, delicious variations, and answers to all your questions. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover holiday ham or just want an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup, this recipe delivers incredible flavor with almost no hands-on time.

Why This Recipe Works

This Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for so many good reasons:

• Effortless Preparation: Just 10 minutes of prep time, then your slow cooker does all the work.
• Rich, Developed Flavor: The low, slow cooking allows the smoky ham flavor to infuse every potato, creating depth that quick-cooking methods just can’t match.
• Perfect Texture: The gentle heat of the slow cooker ensures your potatoes become tender without falling apart or turning mushy.
• Versatility Champion: Easy to customize with different seasonings, add-ins, or make it creamy or cheesy (more on these variations below!).
• Leftover Transformer: This recipe breathes delicious new life into leftover holiday ham—no one will guess they’re eating leftovers!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1½ pounds fully cooked smoked ham, cubed into ½-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste (be cautious as ham is already salty)

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well. If using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, you can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Cut them into 1-inch chunks of similar size for even cooking.
2. Prepare the ham: Cut the ham into ½-inch cubes. If using leftover ham from a holiday meal, this is perfect for using it up!
3. Layer in the slow cooker: Place half the potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker, followed by half the ham. Repeat with remaining potatoes and ham.
4. Add aromatics and seasonings: Sprinkle the diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, black pepper, and paprika over the top. Dot with the small pieces of butter.
5. Add liquid: Pour the chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker (not directly on top, to keep the seasonings in place).
6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Taste and adjust: Before serving, carefully taste and adjust seasonings if needed, adding salt only if necessary (remember, ham is naturally salty).
8. Serve: Spoon into bowls and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Recipe Card

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 6-7 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Description:
A hearty, comforting slow cooker ham and potatoes recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or using leftover ham. The slow cooking process infuses the potatoes with amazing flavor for a dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1½ pounds fully cooked smoked ham, cubed into ½-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste (be cautious as ham is already salty)

Instructions:

1. Cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks (skin on) and ham into ½-inch cubes.
2. Layer half the potatoes and half the ham in the slow cooker, then repeat with remaining potatoes and ham.
3. Add diced onion, garlic, all seasonings, and dot with butter pieces.
4. Pour chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 950mg

Notes & Expert Tips

Choosing the Best Ham

For the best slow cooker ham and potatoes, opt for fully cooked smoked ham. This variety will impart the richest flavor into your dish. Bone-in ham typically has more flavor, but boneless works perfectly well and is easier to prep. Leftover holiday ham is ideal for this recipe – just trim away any glazed outer portions if they’re too sweet for a savory dish.

Potato Perfection

Yukon Gold potatoes are my top recommendation for this recipe. They have a buttery flavor and maintain their shape well during slow cooking without getting mushy. Red potatoes are an excellent second choice for the same reason. Russet potatoes will work but tend to break down more during cooking – use them if you prefer a slightly mushier texture or plan to make the dish creamy.

Adding Other Vegetables

Feel free to bulk up your slow cooker ham and potatoes with additional vegetables:

• Carrots: Add chunks at the beginning with the potatoes
• Celery: Add diced pieces with the onions
• Bell peppers: Add in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from getting too soft
• Frozen peas: Stir in during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time

Making it Creamy

Transform this into creamy slow cooker ham and potatoes by stirring in one of these during the last 30 minutes of cooking:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken or celery soup

Thickening the Sauce

If you’d like a thicker sauce, make a quick cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking time with the lid on.

Salt Considerations

Since ham is naturally salty, I recommend holding off on adding salt until the end. Taste the finished dish and add salt only if needed. Using low-sodium broth also helps control the overall saltiness.

Slow Cooker Size Matters

This recipe is designed for a 6-quart slow cooker. If using a smaller cooker, you may need to reduce the quantities. For larger cookers, the cooking time might be slightly shorter as the food layer will be thinner.

Storage & Leftovers

Slow cooker ham and potatoes will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or larger amounts on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, be aware that the texture of the potatoes will change somewhat upon thawing. For best results, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

Creamy Slow Cooker Ham & Potatoes

For an indulgent, creamy version that takes comfort food to the next level:

1. Follow the base recipe as directed.
2. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in 4 oz of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of heavy cream.
3. Replace the lid and continue cooking for the remaining time.
4. Just before serving, stir gently to incorporate the now-melted cream cheese throughout the dish.

Cheesy Slow Cooker Ham & Potatoes

Transform this into a cheesy delight that kids and adults alike will devour:

1. Cook the base recipe as directed.
2. About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mixture) over the top.
3. Replace the lid to allow the cheese to melt.
4. Alternatively, transfer the finished dish to a broiler-safe casserole dish, top with cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Herbed Slow Cooker Ham & Potatoes

Elevate the flavor profile with fresh herbs:

1. Replace the dried herbs in the recipe with 1 tablespoon each of fresh chopped rosemary and thyme.
2. Just before serving, stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for brightness.

Spicy Slow Cooker Ham & Potatoes

Add a little heat to balance the richness of the ham:

1. Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.
2. Consider adding a diced jalapeño with the onions for additional spice and flavor.

Smoky Depth Version

Enhance the smokiness that pairs so beautifully with ham:

1. Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
2. For even more smoky goodness, add a few drops of liquid smoke with the broth.

Ham & Potato Soup Conversion

Turn this into a delicious slow cooker ham and potato soup:

1. Increase the chicken broth to 3 cups from the beginning.
2. After cooking is complete, use a potato masher to lightly mash about one-third of the potatoes to thicken the soup.
3. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving for a creamy soup variation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put raw potatoes in slow cooker with ham?

Yes, you can and should put raw potatoes in the slow cooker with ham. The slow cooking process is perfect for cooking raw potatoes alongside pre-cooked ham. Just make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes) so they cook at the same rate.

Do you have to brown ham before putting in slow cooker?

No, you don’t need to brown ham before adding it to the slow cooker, especially if you’re using pre-cooked smoked ham as recommended in this recipe. The ham is already cooked and ready to eat; the slow cooking is mainly to infuse flavors and heat it through.

What is the best type of ham for slow cooker ham and potatoes?

Fully cooked smoked ham works best for slow cooker ham and potatoes. It has the perfect balance of saltiness and smoky flavor that infuses into the potatoes. Leftover holiday ham is perfect, as is ham steak or ham from the deli section (just ask for it cut thick).

What kind of potatoes are best for slow cooker ham and potatoes?

Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal for slow cooker ham and potatoes because they hold their shape well during long cooking times. Their waxy texture prevents them from falling apart or becoming mushy, while still becoming perfectly tender.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, you don’t need to peel Yukon Gold or red potatoes for this recipe. The skins are thin and add nice texture and nutrients to the dish. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly. If using russet potatoes, peeling is recommended as their skins are thicker.

How long does it take to cook ham and potatoes in a slow cooker?

On LOW, cook for 6-7 hours. On HIGH, cook for 3-4 hours. The dish is done when the potatoes are fork-tender, meaning a fork easily slides into the potato chunks without resistance.

Why is my slow cooker ham and potatoes dish watery?

Excess liquid can come from the ham releasing moisture during cooking. To fix a watery dish, try:

• Using less broth initially (¾ cup instead of 1 cup)
• Leaving the slow cooker uncovered on HIGH for the last 20-30 minutes to evaporate some liquid
• Creating a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water) and stirring it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking

Why are my potatoes still hard after slow cooking?

If your potatoes are still hard, either:

• They need more cooking time (add another 30-60 minutes)
• Your slow cooker might not be reaching proper temperature
• The potato pieces might be too large (cut them smaller next time)
• Your slow cooker might be too full for efficient heat circulation

Can I make slow cooker ham and potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients the night before. Store the cut potatoes in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning, and keep the seasoned ham separate. Combine everything in the slow cooker in the morning. The fully cooked dish can also be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

How do I store leftover ham and potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best flavor and texture, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze slow cooker ham and potatoes?

Yes, but be aware that the texture of potatoes can change after freezing and thawing. For best results, freeze in portion-sized, airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to serve with slow cooker ham and potatoes?

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Simple coleslaw
• Cornbread

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

Turn your slow cooker ham and potatoes into a complete meal with these perfect pairings:

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices
• Simple green salad – The fresh crispness balances the rich, hearty main dish
• Steamed green beans – A classic side that adds color and nutrition
• Roasted broccoli – The slight char complements the smoky ham flavor
• Corn on the cob – Especially great in summer months
• Homemade applesauce – The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory ham

For an extra special touch, serve with a side of honey mustard sauce for dipping the ham.

In Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes truly are the most satisfying. With minimal effort and basic ingredients, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or using up leftover holiday ham.

I’d love to hear how your slow cooker ham and potatoes turned out! Did you try one of the variations? Have another serving suggestion? Leave a comment below, share your creation on social media and tag me, or pin this recipe to your comfort food board on Pinterest.

Happy slow cooking!