Crockpot ham casserole

Name: Crockpot Ham Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 0.45 pounds Cooked Ham (Diced); 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 ounce); 0.5 cup Milk; 0.25 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1 cup Egg Noodles (Cooked according to package directions); 0.5 cup Crushed Crackers (Saltine or Ritz); 2 tablespoons Butter (Melted)

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Oh, friends, if there’s one recipe that has saved my sanity more times than I can count, it’s this crockpot ham casserole. I swear, the moment I pull it out of the Slow Cooker, the entire house just lights up. It’s got that perfect balance of savory, a little bit sweet, and just downright comforting. You know how sometimes you just crave something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl? This is it. It reminds me a bit of those old-school baked ham dishes, but honestly, it’s a million times easier because the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. My kids, who are notoriously picky, will devour this. And when I say devour, I mean they’ll ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). It’s become our go-to for busy weeknights, holiday brunches, or just when that craving for something truly delicious hits.

What is a crockpot ham casserole?

So, what exactly *is* this magical crockpot ham casserole? Think of it as the ultimate comfort food, all simmered to perfection in your Slow Cooker. It’s essentially a hearty, savory dish that features delicious chunks of ham, often mixed with tender vegetables and sometimes a creamy sauce, all slow-cooked until everything is melded together beautifully. It’s not a fussy layered bake or a complicated casserole that requires a million steps. The beauty of this is its simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that smells absolutely heavenly as it cooks, filling your home with that warm, inviting aroma that just screams “dinner is ready!” It’s honest, satisfying food that brings people together, and honestly, what more could you ask for? It’s the kind of thing you can throw together with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons why this crockpot ham casserole has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation, and I just know you’re going to fall in love with it too! For starters, the flavor is just out of this world. The ham gets this lovely tender texture, and it mingles with whatever else you put in there – I’ve tried it with potatoes, with pasta, and honestly, it’s always a winner. What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is. You literally just toss everything into the Slow Cooker, set it, and forget it. No hovering over a hot oven, no complex techniques. It’s a lifesaver on those days when you’re juggling a million things and just need a delicious, stress-free meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly budget-friendly! Ham can sometimes be a bit of a splurge, but a little bit goes a long way in this casserole, and the other ingredients are usually pantry staples. It’s also super versatile. You can tweak it based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. I’ve even used leftover holiday ham, and it’s absolutely divine. It’s definitely a step up from your average weeknight meal and makes you look like a culinary genius with minimal effort. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and comforting, without feeling heavy. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be asking yourself why you didn’t make it sooner!

How do you make a crockpot ham casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this crockpot ham casserole is almost ridiculously easy. You’ll basically chop your ingredients, toss them into the Slow Cooker, stir it all around, and let the magic happen for a few hours. It’s the kind of recipe that’s almost impossible to mess up, which is a huge win in my book. You get all that delicious, slow-cooked flavor without any of the fuss. It’s perfect for anyone who loves comforting, home-cooked meals but doesn’t have a ton of time or energy to dedicate to elaborate cooking.

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
This is where the magic really starts. We’re talking about simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Make sure you use good quality ham; it makes a difference! I usually opt for a fully cooked, diced ham that I can find at my local grocery store. You can also use leftover holiday ham if you have some – just make sure to dice it into bite-sized pieces. About 2 cups should do the trick.

For the Filling:
Here’s where you can really customize! My go-to is a combination of tender, bite-sized potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, about 2 cups, cubed) and some sweet peas (a cup of frozen peas works perfectly). You can also throw in chopped carrots or even some broccoli florets if your family likes them. I always add a medium onion, finely chopped, for that foundational savory flavor. Some garlic cloves, minced, are a must for me!

For the Glaze:
This is optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra pop of flavor and visual appeal. A simple glaze made with about 1/4 cup of Brown Sugar and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard creates a beautiful, slightly sweet and tangy finish. You can also add a pinch of paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for more depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

While this is a crockpot recipe, I like to get a head start by lightly prepping my slow cooker insert. I usually give it a quick spray with cooking spray, just to make sure nothing sticks. You don’t need to preheat the slow cooker itself, but getting the insert ready is always a good idea. This takes about 30 seconds!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, I like to mix together my diced ham, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. If you’re adding any other veggies like carrots, this is the time to toss them in. Just give it all a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Here’s where we bring in some moisture and flavor! In a small bowl, whisk together about 1.5 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer) with a tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help thicken the casserole as it cooks. If you like a creamier casserole, you can also whisk in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at this stage. Some people even like to add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness!

Step 4: Combine

Now, pour the wet ingredients over the ham and potato mixture in your slow cooker. Add your frozen peas (if using). Give everything a really good stir to make sure all the ingredients are coated and combined. You want to make sure that cornstarch mixture is well distributed so it can work its thickening magic.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

This step is for the optional glaze. If you’re making it, whisk together the brown sugar and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth. If it seems too thick, you can add a tiny splash of water or even a bit of the chicken broth from the casserole to loosen it up. You want it to be spreadable, not runny.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

For the main casserole, there’s no real “layering” in the traditional sense. You’re just making sure everything is nicely mixed in the slow cooker. If you *are* adding a creamy element like a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup (another popular variation!), you’d typically stir that in with the wet ingredients.

Step 7: Bake

Now for the best part – letting the slow cooker do its work! Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the ham should be heated through. The broth will have thickened into a lovely sauce. I usually check it around the 5-hour mark on low just to see how it’s progressing. If you’re short on time, the high setting works perfectly well!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once the casserole is cooked and everything is tender, carefully remove the lid. If you’re using the glaze, gently spread it over the top of the casserole. You don’t need to stir it in; just let it melt and meld into the top layer as it rests. Let the casserole sit, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken up a bit more and the flavors to meld. It also makes it easier to serve!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Scoop out generous portions of your delicious crockpot ham casserole. It’s fantastic served as is, but I love serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that amazing sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad.

What to Serve It With

This crockpot ham casserole is so wonderfully versatile, it can honestly fit into almost any mealtime! For a cozy breakfast, I love serving it alongside some fluffy scrambled eggs. The savory ham and tender potatoes are such a delightful start to the day. If you’re thinking brunch, this casserole is an absolute showstopper. I like to serve it in a nice serving dish, maybe with a sprig of parsley on top for a touch of elegance. It pairs beautifully with a mimosa or a good cup of coffee. And you know what? It’s also fantastic as a dessert, especially if you add a touch more sweetness to the glaze or even a swirl of cream cheese into the casserole itself. It hits that comfort food spot perfectly when you’re craving something a little sweet and a lot satisfying after dinner. For those really casual, laid-back evenings, it’s perfect just as a hearty snack. I’ll often just serve myself a bowl while I’m catching up on a show. My family loves it with some warm, crusty bread for dipping, or sometimes I’ll even serve it with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal. It’s truly a dish that fits any occasion and always brings smiles to the table.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Ham Casserole

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that help make this crockpot ham casserole absolutely perfect every single time. First off, when it comes to the potatoes, I always choose smaller, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. They hold their shape so much better during the long cooking time and don’t turn to mush. I also make sure to cut them into roughly uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. If you’re using frozen peas, don’t thaw them beforehand! Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking. This prevents them from getting overcooked and mushy. For the ham, using a good quality, fully cooked ham is key. You want that rich, savory flavor. If you’re using leftover holiday ham, make sure to trim off any excess fat before dicing it up. When it comes to mixing, I always do a thorough stir at the beginning to ensure all the ingredients are well combined with the liquid. This helps everything cook evenly and prevents any pockets of dry ingredients. If you find your casserole is a little too liquidy after cooking, don’t panic! You can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water and let it cook on high for another 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens up. For the glaze, I’ve experimented a lot! Sometimes I’ll add a tiny bit of maple syrup for a sweeter touch, or a pinch of cayenne pepper if we’re feeling a little adventurous and want a hint of heat. And my biggest tip? Taste and adjust! Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt or pepper at the end if needed. This recipe is so forgiving, so feel free to play around with it and make it your own!

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this crockpot ham casserole is how well it stores and reheats. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can keep them at room temperature for about two hours. After that, it’s best to get it into the refrigerator. For refrigerator storage, I like to transfer any remaining casserole into an airtight container. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for about 3-4 days. The flavors actually tend to meld even more overnight, making it even tastier the next day! When it comes to reheating, I have a few favorite methods. The easiest is just to pop a portion into the microwave for a minute or two, stirring halfway through, until it’s heated through. If I have a bit more time, I love to reheat it in a small oven-safe dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and hot. This method really brings back that wonderful texture. If you’re planning to freeze some, make sure it has cooled completely first. I usually portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It should stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as usual. For reheating from frozen, you can often do it directly in the oven at a lower temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for a longer period, making sure it’s heated all the way through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Making this crockpot ham casserole gluten-free is surprisingly easy. The main thing to check is your chicken broth; make sure it’s certified gluten-free. If your recipe calls for a thickening agent like cornstarch, it’s naturally gluten-free. If you’re using a condensed soup like cream of mushroom, be sure to grab a gluten-free version. Most hams are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to double-check the packaging just in case. The rest of the ingredients – potatoes, peas, onions, ham – are all gluten-free. You shouldn’t need to make any major adjustments to the quantities. The texture will be just as wonderful!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Wait a minute, this recipe doesn’t have zucchini in it! It’s a ham and potato casserole. Perhaps you’re thinking of a different recipe? If you were to make a *zucchini* casserole, peeling is often optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and a bit more color, but if you prefer a softer texture or are worried about the skin being tough, you can certainly peel it. For this delicious ham casserole, though, no zucchini is involved!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s an interesting idea! While this particular recipe is designed for the slow cooker and isn’t really suited for muffin form, you *could* adapt the concept for baked muffins. You’d likely need to precook the potatoes until they’re tender but not mushy, then combine them with diced ham, bind it with eggs and perhaps some breadcrumbs or flour, and bake in muffin tins. The slow cooker cooking method is what makes this casserole so wonderfully tender and flavorful, so a baked muffin version would have a very different texture and require a whole new set of instructions and cooking times.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The sweetness in this crockpot ham casserole primarily comes from the optional glaze, which uses brown sugar. If you prefer it less sweet, you can simply reduce the amount of brown sugar in the glaze. For instance, you could try using just 2 tablespoons of brown sugar instead of 1/4 cup. Alternatively, you can omit the glaze entirely! The casserole itself is savory from the ham and broth. If you want a *different* kind of sweetness without refined sugar, a tiny drizzle of maple syrup in the glaze can work, but use it sparingly as it’s quite potent. The Dijon mustard in the glaze also adds a tangy counterpoint that balances the sweetness.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

That’s a great question! The glaze is totally optional, but it does add a nice finishing touch. If you want to skip it, no problem at all! The casserole will still be delicious on its own. Another option is to use a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and color. Some people like to top their casseroles with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking, which creates a lovely cheesy crust. You could also opt for a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on each serving instead of a glaze. All of these alternatives add a different dimension without requiring a separate glaze preparation.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this crockpot ham casserole is one of those recipes that just brings pure joy. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel so accomplished with so little effort, and the flavor is just so incredibly satisfying. It’s comforting, hearty, and has that wonderful home-cooked taste that’s perfect for any occasion, from a busy weeknight dinner to a relaxed weekend brunch. If you love this, you might also enjoy my other slow cooker recipes or some of my comforting potato bakes – they always go over so well! I truly hope you give this crockpot ham casserole a try. I can’t wait to hear what you think and what wonderful variations you come up with. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out, or share your favorite tips! Happy cooking, everyone!

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