Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Tender potatoes and savory ham slow-cooked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. A cozy, comforting one-pot meal that's perfect for using up leftover holiday ham.
By Mia HartwellUpdated November 15, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Creamy, cheesy ham and potatoes in one pot
- A perfect use for leftover ham
- Cozy comfort food on a budget
- Hands-off and family-approved
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
6 hr 15 min totalServes 6
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 420kcal
- Protein
- 24g
- Carbs
- 40g
- Fat
- 19g
- Fiber
- 4g
- Sugar
- 4g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Layer half the potatoes, ham, and onion in the slow cooker; season with salt and pepper.
- 2
Whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk, and pour half over the layers.
- 3
Add the remaining potatoes, ham, and onion, then the rest of the sauce. Stir in the garlic.
- 4
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3.5-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- 5
Stir in the cheddar in the last 20 minutes until melted and creamy.
- 6
Garnish with parsley and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Slice the potatoes thin and evenly so they cook through and stay tender.
- Ham is already cooked and salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Stir in the cheese at the end so it melts smoothly without curdling.
- This is a great way to use leftover holiday ham.
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How to Cook Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Layer for even cooking
Slice the potatoes thin and layer them with the ham, onion, and sauce so everything cooks evenly. Layering rather than dumping ensures the potatoes are surrounded by the creamy liquid that cooks them through.
Cook until the potatoes are tender
Slow cook until the potatoes are fork-tender — that's the main thing to cook here, since the ham is already cooked. Keep the lid on so the potatoes steam and soften evenly.
Add cheese at the end
Stir in the cheddar in the last 20 minutes so it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce rather than curdling over long heat. Taste before salting, since ham and cheese are already salty.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Best enjoyed within a few days.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker ham and potatoes pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it without canned soup?+
Yes — use about 1.5 cups of homemade cream sauce (a butter-flour roux with milk and broth) in its place.
What potatoes are best?+
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well; russets work but are starchier and softer.
Can I add vegetables?+
Peas, broccoli, or green beans are nice; stir tender ones in near the end.
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