Brunilda Schiavone A scalloped potatoes and ham slow cooker recipe offers a convenient and flavorful way to prepare this classic dish. This method leverages the slow cooker’s gentle heat to create tender potatoes and a rich, savory sauce, minimizing hands-on time and maximizing deliciousness. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is adaptable to various preferences, allowing for adjustments in seasonings and the inclusion of other vegetables. The detailed instructions provided ensure a successful outcome, even for novice cooks.
The slow cooker method for scalloped potatoes and ham simplifies the cooking process significantly. Traditional methods often require careful oven monitoring and multiple steps, but the slow cooker maintains a consistent temperature, ensuring even cooking and preventing burning. The result is creamy, perfectly cooked potatoes infused with the savory essence of ham. This recipe presents an excellent balance of convenience and quality, ideal for those seeking a delicious meal without extensive kitchen time. The hands-off nature of slow cooking allows for other tasks to be completed during preparation.
This recipes ease of preparation and delicious results make it a popular choice for busy individuals and families. The slow cooker simplifies the culinary process, allowing for effortless creation of a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Slow Cooker Recipe
- In the slow cooker, combine the butter, onion, and thyme. Cook on low for 15 minutes, until softened.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with half of the ham, salt, and pepper.
- Pour half of the chicken broth over the potatoes and ham.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, ham, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
- Pour heavy cream evenly over the top layer.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Slow Cooker Recipe
The scalloped potatoes and ham slow cooker recipe offers a convenient and time-saving approach to preparing this classic dish. The slow cooking method ensures tender potatoes and a flavorful sauce, perfect for busy individuals and families. The estimated cooking time and yield are outlined below, allowing for efficient meal planning and preparation. Understanding these values aids in adjusting the recipe according to individual needs, ensuring sufficient quantities for gatherings or smaller portions for individual servings. This table provides a clear summary of the recipe’s timeframe and output.
| Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 hours | 3-4 hours | 6-8 |
Nutritional Information for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
This scalloped potatoes and ham recipe provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The potatoes offer a good source of carbohydrates, while the ham contributes protein. The addition of dairy products like cream and cheese boosts the fat content and contributes to the creamy texture. The recipe also includes vegetables, adding essential vitamins and minerals. It is important to note that the exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Note: The following nutritional information is an approximation and may vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredient specifications.
| Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350-400 |
| Fat | Approximately 20-25g |
| Protein | Approximately 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 30-35g |
Tips for Cooking Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Achieving optimal results with this recipe involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Proper preparation of ingredients and precise cooking methods contribute to the overall quality and taste of the dish. These tips enhance the cooking process and the final product, ensuring a consistently delicious outcome.
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Use Thinly Sliced Potatoes:
Thinly sliced potatoes cook more evenly and quickly in the slow cooker, preventing some slices from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked. Aim for slices approximately 1/8 inch thick for optimal results. Using a mandoline slicer can ensure consistent thickness.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker:
Overcrowding can hinder even cooking and result in unevenly cooked potatoes. Leave some space between the layers to allow for even heat distribution and proper cooking. A slow cooker that is too full may also affect the cooking time.
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Use Quality Ham:
The flavor of the ham significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Choose a high-quality ham, either bone-in or boneless, for optimal flavor. Consider using a smoked ham for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.
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Adjust Seasoning to Taste:
Seasoning is crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile. Adjust the amounts of salt, pepper, and thyme to suit personal preferences. Consider adding other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for additional flavor complexity.
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Check for Doneness:
Before serving, ensure the potatoes are cooked through and tender. Use a fork to check the tenderness of the potatoes in multiple locations. If needed, continue cooking for a shorter period on high heat to reach the desired consistency.
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Garnish Before Serving:
A simple garnish can enhance the visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of additional cheese. A dollop of sour cream or crme frache could also add richness and texture.
The slow cooker method offers significant advantages over traditional oven-baked methods for this recipe. The slow, consistent heat ensures evenly cooked, tender potatoes, and reduces the risk of burning or overcooking. This reduces the need for frequent monitoring, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules. The outcome is a consistently delicious and convenient meal.
The versatility of this recipe allows for customization based on individual preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with different types of cheese, add other vegetables such as carrots or celery, or use different types of broth to tailor the dish to your liking. The adaptable nature makes this a truly customizable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Slow Cooker Recipe
Several common questions arise when preparing this dish. Addressing these frequently asked questions clarifies any uncertainties and ensures a smooth cooking process and optimal results. Understanding these points helps in avoiding common pitfalls and achieving the desired outcome.
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Can I use other types of potatoes?
While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may need adjustment. Avoid using waxy potatoes as they tend to become gummy when cooked for extended periods.
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Can I use leftover ham?
Absolutely! Using leftover ham is an excellent way to reduce food waste and add flavor to the dish. Ensure the ham is diced into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
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What if my slow cooker is smaller?
If your slow cooker is smaller than the recipe calls for, you might need to adjust the quantities of ingredients proportionally to avoid overcrowding. It is better to use a slightly smaller quantity to ensure even cooking.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can assemble the layers in the slow cooker in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook. Increase the cooking time accordingly to account for the chilled ingredients.
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be frozen before or after cooking. For best results, cool the dish completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
The scalloped potatoes and ham slow cooker recipe provides a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional methods. Its adaptability and ease of preparation make it a popular choice for various occasions. The slow cooker’s gentle heat ensures a tender and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ultimately, this recipe showcases the convenience and delicious results achievable through utilizing a slow cooker for classic comfort food. Its versatility allows for personal adjustments, while its simplicity caters to individuals of all cooking skill levels. The resulting dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe offers a convenient, flavorful, and time-saving approach to preparing a beloved classic. The result is a dish that is both comforting and impressive, perfect for a wide variety of occasions and skill levels.