When it comes to warm, comforting meals that practically cook themselves, nothing beats the charm of a slow cooker. One of my favorite go-to recipes is Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes. This dish is a delightful medley of tender potatoes, smoky ham, and aromatic spices that meld together beautifully over several hours. Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight dinner or an easy meal to feed a larger group during the holidays, this recipe truly fits the bill. The best part? It requires minimal prep time, allowing you to set it and forget it while the tantalizing aromas fill your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This slow cooker ham and potatoes recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients you may already have on hand. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are affordable, and leftover ham gives a second life to what could otherwise be waste. Plus, the dish is exceptionally versatile. You can enjoy it on a busy weeknight, serve it at a family brunch, or even bring it to potlucks, where it never fails to impress.

“So easy and delicious! My kids licked their plates clean. Definitely a keeper!” – Anna M., satisfied home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes is a straightforward and satisfying experience. You’ll start by preparing your ingredients, then layer them in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld over hours of low, gentle heat. There’s no need for elaborate techniques here—just a bit of chopping and assembling. As the meal cooks, each ingredient releases its flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Gather These Items

To make this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1½ pounds fully cooked smoked ham, cubed into ½-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste

You can easily substitute smoked turkey or other types of cooked meat for the ham, or even incorporate vegetables like carrots for added nutrition and flavor.