This slow cooker classic is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Tender potatoes swim in a creamy broth, flavored with smoky ham and the irresistible taste of cheddar cheese. With minimal prep work, you can set it and forget it, coming home to a hearty bowl of delicious soup.

Ingredients

- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 pound ham, diced (use leftover ham or a store-bought ham steak)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by layering your slow cooker with the chopped potatoes, diced ham, onion, and garlic. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Gently pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Let everything gently meld together for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has thickened slightly.

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for a little pop of color. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Comforting Cheesy Ham & Potato Slow Cooker Soup is a crowd-pleaser for everyone, whether you’re hosting a busy weeknight dinner or looking for a hearty family lunch. If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for the cream, and consider a low-fat cheddar. You can also toss in extra veggies like carrots or celery for added color and nutrition. With its rich, savory flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is all about cozy comfort in every spoonful.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
