Description

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a slow cooker meal wafting through the house, especially on chilly days. This Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon is a staple in our home, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the savory flavors of ham and bacon with the earthiness of potatoes. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles and hungry appetites!

This stew is wonderfully self-sufficient, but for a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette and some steamed green beans. For an extra cozy touch, serve it alongside warm, crusty bread to sop up all the delicious juices.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb cooked ham, cut into cubes
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method

Start by placing the chopped potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker to form a solid base.

Top with cubed ham, crumbled bacon, diced onion, and minced garlic, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pour chicken broth over the mixture, making sure some liquid reaches the bottom to help with even cooking.

Sprinkle dried thyme and black pepper over the top for seasoning.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. If you're short on time, cook on high for about 4 hours.

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt (optional but highly recommended!).

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a touch of freshness and color.

Tips and Conclusion

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adjusted to fit dietary needs and personal preferences:

Swap Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Lighten It Up: Substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon to reduce fat content.

Go Vegetarian: Skip the ham and bacon, and add extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. A dash of smoked paprika will mimic that smoky depth of flavor.

Make It Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier stew.

This Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon is a comforting, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for busy days. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, it's guaranteed to be a hit.

Looking for more easy and delicious slow cooker recipes? Browse our collection for inspiration and share your cooking experiences with us! 🍲✨