Scalloped potatoes and ham in crock pot – Scalloped potatoes and ham in a crock pot is a comforting and convenient dish that combines the classic flavors of scalloped potatoes with the savory richness of ham. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, and it’s sure to please the whole family.
To make scalloped potatoes and ham in a crock pot, you’ll need the following ingredients: 3 pounds of thinly sliced potatoes, 1 pound of diced ham, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Techniques
Using a crock pot for scalloped potatoes and ham offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides a hands-off cooking method, allowing you to prepare the dish and let it cook unattended for hours.
Scalloped potatoes and ham in a crock pot are a classic comfort food. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to serve alongside, try peach cobbler with cake mix . It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. When the cobbler is done, return your attention to the crock pot.
The scalloped potatoes and ham should be tender and flavorful by now, ready to be served with a side of your favorite vegetables.
The different cooking settings on a crock pot affect the cooking time and results. The “low” setting typically cooks the dish for 6-8 hours, while the “high” setting cooks it for 3-4 hours. The “low” setting results in more tender potatoes and ham, while the “high” setting cooks the dish more quickly but may result in slightly drier potatoes.
Adjusting Cooking Time, Scalloped potatoes and ham in crock pot
To adjust the cooking time based on the desired level of doneness, you can use a fork to test the potatoes. If the fork easily pierces the potatoes, they are done cooking. If the potatoes are still firm, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until they reach the desired tenderness.
Presentation and Serving
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a visually appealing dish that can be further enhanced with garnishes and plating techniques. Once cooked, consider the following suggestions to elevate its presentation:
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
- Grate Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes for a golden-brown, savory crust.
- Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the dish for a luxurious and earthy flavor.
Plating:
- Transfer the scalloped potatoes and ham to a shallow baking dish or gratin dish for a more elegant presentation.
- Arrange the potatoes in a decorative pattern, such as a spiral or concentric circles.
- Serve the dish directly from the crock pot for a rustic and casual feel.
Serving Options:
- Accompany the scalloped potatoes and ham with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Serve crusty bread or rolls on the side for mopping up the flavorful juices.
- Consider offering a selection of condiments, such as sour cream, apple sauce, or Dijon mustard, to enhance the flavors.
Storage and Reheating:
- Leftover scalloped potatoes and ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe dish and heat on high power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Alternatively, preheat an oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the scalloped potatoes and ham in a covered dish for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Wrap-Up: Scalloped Potatoes And Ham In Crock Pot
Scalloped potatoes and ham in a crock pot is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, give this recipe a try.