When you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Stew is the perfect choice. Loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheddar cheese, this stew offers rich flavors and creamy textures that are sure to satisfy. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Cozy up with a bowl of this delicious stew and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 tablespoons of minced parsley (optional, for a finishing touch)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Cube the cooked ham and finely mince the onion. Mince the garlic and set all the ingredients aside.
- Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker: In a large slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, cooked ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
- Make the Creamy Base: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the stew. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir well to combine and allow the cheese to melt into the stew.
- Season to Taste: After the cheese has melted and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency, taste the stew and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Once the stew is fully cooked and creamy, ladle it into bowls. If desired, garnish each serving with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Stew is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors and creamy textures into a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With minimal effort and the magic of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a cold night or an easy dish to impress your guests, this stew is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread and enjoy the cozy flavors in every spoonful.