Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This slow cooker ham and scalloped potatoes recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth ham nestled amongst creamy, perfectly layered potatoes – all cooked to perfection with minimal effort. This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss, making it one of the best recipes for a truly satisfying and healthy meal. It's a simple, homemade cooking masterpiece that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's anything but ordinary!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in ham steak, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be used later for a final broil to achieve perfectly browned tops!
Layer the magic:
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In your slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the sliced onions and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
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Top with half of the ham slices.
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Repeat layers: potatoes, onions, garlic, remaining ham slices.
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Pour the chicken broth evenly over all the layers.
Slow cook to perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Creamy finish:
- Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine and ensure the cheese is melted and creamy.
Golden brown finish:
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Carefully transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Dot the top with butter.
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Broil in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and bubbly. This step adds a delightful crispy element to complement the creamy potatoes and ham.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, use smoked ham.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, use Gruyere or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar.
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Or, for a lighter version, try using milk and a little less cheese!
- To make this a complete meal, serve with a side salad or steamed green beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on variations)
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
This slow cooker ham and scalloped potatoes recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste and comfort. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special holiday gathering. Enjoy this healthy meal and remember to share it with your loved ones! This recipe is a great addition to your collection of homemade cooking favorites, offering a simple yet satisfying experience. It's one of the best recipes for those busy nights when you still crave a comforting and delicious meal.