Slow Cooker Creamy Ham & Cheese Casserole

Description

Slow Cooker Creamy Ham & Cheese Casserole is a rich, comforting, and incredibly easy meal that’s perfect for busy families. Tender cubes of ham are slowly cooked in a creamy cheese sauce until they become juicy and flavorful. The slow cooking process allows the sauce to thicken while infusing every bite with savory goodness. This versatile recipe can be served over mashed potatoes, cooked pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal prep time, this crockpot recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Cream cheese, cheddar, and a touch of garlic create a silky, cheesy sauce that perfectly complements the smoky ham. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or fresh ham cubes, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients For the Ham

2 pounds cooked ham, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced

For Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Fresh cracked black pepper
Extra shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

Place the cubed ham into the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat the ham evenly with the seasonings.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese soup, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.

Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the seasoned ham. Stir gently so every piece of ham is coated in the creamy mixture.

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking to help the cheese melt evenly.

About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover again and allow it to melt completely into the sauce.

Once the sauce is smooth, thick, and bubbling, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, freshly cracked black pepper, and extra cheddar cheese if desired.

Serve warm over mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, steamed rice, biscuits, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Tips & Notes

Leftover holiday ham works perfectly in this recipe.
Avoid overcooking, as the ham is already fully cooked.
Add steamed broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Pepper Jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar if you prefer a spicy kick.
If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Q&A

Can I use uncooked ham?
No. This recipe is designed for fully cooked ham. If using raw pork, cook it thoroughly before serving.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.

What can I serve with it?
Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, roasted vegetables, biscuits, or a fresh green salad are all excellent choices.

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Swiss, or Gouda all melt beautifully and add great flavor.

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving:

Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 145mg
Sodium: 1,420mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 3g