Embrace the cozy warmth of a comforting stew with this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon. Packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, crispy bacon, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is a one-pot wonder that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a satisfying dish to serve on a chilly evening, this easy-to-make stew is the perfect choice. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the tantalizing aroma that fills your home, signaling the arrival of a delicious and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs of potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb cooked ham, cut into cubes
- 6 slices of 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
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into pieces. Cube the cooked ham.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, layer the chopped potatoes, cubed ham, diced onion, minced garlic, and crumbled bacon.
- Season: Sprinkle the dried thyme and black pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Optional: Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and become gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the stew for added flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier stew, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking.
- Herb Substitution: If you don’t have dried thyme on hand, you can substitute with dried rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use uncooked ham in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use uncooked ham in this recipe. Simply cube the uncooked ham and add it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. The ham will cook and tenderize as the stew simmers.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this stew on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can make this stew on the stovetop. Simply combine all the ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of this stew, omit the potatoes or substitute them with cauliflower florets. Use low-sodium chicken broth and opt for nitrate-free ham and bacon. Skip the optional shredded cheddar cheese or use a keto-friendly cheese alternative.
Low-Carb Version: To reduce the carb content, use fewer potatoes or substitute them with turnips or rutabagas. Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a leaner option, and opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
Savor the heartwarming flavors of Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and hearty ingredients, this stew is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and enjoy the satisfying goodness of a homemade meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes Stew with Bacon, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and enjoy the satisfying goodness of a homemade meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
