Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, a culinary delight that combines creamy potatoes, savory ham, and a delectable sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

With its simple ingredients and effortless cooking process, crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is a dish that anyone can master. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

Introduction

Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is a popular dish that is easy to make and perfect for a crowd. It is made with simple ingredients like potatoes, ham, cheese, and cream. The potatoes are sliced and layered in a crockpot with the ham and cheese.

The cream is poured over the potatoes and the dish is cooked on low for several hours. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

The basic ingredients in crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham are potatoes, ham, cheese, and cream. The potatoes are typically sliced thin, and the ham is cut into cubes. The cheese can be any type of cheese that you like, but cheddar cheese is a popular choice.

The cream is used to make the sauce that binds the dish together.

Cooking Process

To make crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, start by slicing the potatoes thin. Then, cut the ham into cubes and shred the cheese. Layer the potatoes, ham, and cheese in a crockpot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, salt, and pepper.

Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes and ham. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.

Variations and Additions

Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some common variations and unique additions to consider:

Vegetables

• Add chopped carrots, celery, or green bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• For a cheesy twist, add a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the casserole.
• Incorporate a can of drained corn or peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

Seasonings

• Enhance the flavor with a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
• Add a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
• For a smoky flavor, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

Unique Additions

• Top the casserole with a layer of crispy breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy topping.
• Stir in a cup of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Cooking Techniques: Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes And Ham

Layering the ingredients properly in the crockpot is crucial for achieving the desired flavor and texture. Start by placing a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then add a layer of thinly sliced ham.

Repeat these layers until all the ingredients have been used. The top layer should be potatoes.To achieve a creamy and flavorful sauce, use a combination of milk, cream, and chicken broth. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra flavor.

Whisk the sauce ingredients together in a bowl, then pour it over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on the size of the crockpot and the desired consistency. For a smaller crockpot, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

For a larger crockpot, cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. For a creamier sauce, cook for longer on a lower temperature. For a thicker sauce, cook for shorter on a higher temperature.

Presentation and Serving

To enhance the visual appeal of your crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Scalloped potatoes and ham pair well with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, add a colorful and healthy touch.

For a more substantial side, serve the casserole with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the delicious juices.

Serving Techniques

To ensure that your scalloped potatoes and ham remain warm and flavorful when serving, it is important to keep the dish covered until you are ready to serve it. You can also transfer the casserole to a serving dish and place it in a warm oven (about 200°F) until ready to serve.

To switch things up from the classic crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, why not try a comforting chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup ? It’s an easy and flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. Once you’ve savored the creamy, hearty flavors of the chicken pot pie, come back to the comforting warmth of crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham for a satisfying meal.

If you are transporting the dish to another location, wrap it well in foil to retain heat.

Nutritional Value and Dietary Considerations

Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham offer a satisfying and comforting meal, but it’s essential to be aware of its nutritional content and any dietary considerations.

This dish is rich in carbohydrates from the potatoes and calories from the ham and cream. It also contains a moderate amount of protein and fat. However, it’s important to note that the nutritional value can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.

Gluten-Free Option

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Low-Carb Option

To reduce the carbohydrate content, consider using cauliflower or zucchini as a substitute for some of the potatoes. You can also reduce the amount of cream used in the dish.

Healthy Substitutions, Crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham

To reduce the fat content, use low-fat or fat-free milk instead of cream. You can also opt for leaner cuts of ham or turkey bacon.

To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium ham or bacon. You can also omit the salt from the recipe or use a reduced-sodium version.

Last Recap

As you savor the last bite of your crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham, let the comforting flavors linger on your palate. This dish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a touch of culinary magic. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a heartwarming meal, crockpot scalloped potatoes and ham will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.