Potato skins have always held a special place in the world of comfort food. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with endless possibilities, they are one of those dishes that can be dressed up for a gathering or enjoyed on a quiet night in. This version—Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Stuffed Potato Skins—brings together tender baked potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheddar cheese, all finished in the slow cooker for an easy, hands-off method.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its simplicity. Using a slow cooker means you don’t need to hover around the oven, and the results are consistently tender and flavorful potatoes that form the perfect base for a hearty, cheesy filling.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the potatoes
Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Using a fork, prick each potato several times—this ensures steam escapes as they cook. Rub each one with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. - Cook in the slow cooker.
Place the potatoes directly into your slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for approximately 4 hours, or until a fork can easily pierce the flesh. - Scoop and fill
Remove the potatoes carefully and let them cool slightly until they are cool enough to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then scoop out most of the flesh, leaving just enough along the skin to hold its shape. - Mix the filling
In a bowl, combine diced ham, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and dried thyme. Mix well so the ham and cheese are evenly distributed. - Stuff the skins
Fill each potato shell with the ham and cheese mixture. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese to create a bubbly, golden topping once reheated. - Final slow cooker step
Return the stuffed skins to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for another 30 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt fully and the flavors to meld together. - Serve
Once the cheese is melted and slightly golden, remove the potato skins from the slow cooker. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe combines ease and flavor in a way that’s hard to beat. The slow cooker eliminates the need to preheat an oven and reduces the risk of overcooking. Russet potatoes are perfect here because of their starchy texture, which holds up well when scooped and stuffed. The olive oil rub gives the skins a light crispness, while the thyme adds an herby note that pairs beautifully with smoky ham and cheddar cheese.
Another advantage of this recipe is that it’s flexible. If you don’t have cheddar cheese, try Swiss, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. Leftover turkey, bacon, or even sautéed vegetables can be used as a substitute for the ham. The basic method remains the same, providing you with plenty of room to experiment with flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potato skins are versatile enough to work as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. For game day or parties, arrange them on a platter and serve with sour cream or ranch dip. As a weeknight meal, pair them with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup for a balanced meal.
Because the potatoes are cooked in the slow cooker, you can prepare them ahead of time. Cook the potatoes in the morning, scoop and stuff them in the afternoon, and finish them just before dinner. This make-ahead option is especially helpful when entertaining.
Tips for Success
- Choose uniform potatoes: Select russet potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
- Don’t discard the scooped potato flesh: Save it to make mashed potatoes or potato cakes later in the week.
- Line the slow cooker: For easier cleanup, place a piece of parchment paper under the potato skins during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add toppings: Sour cream, chives, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Stuffed Potato Skins are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something crowd-pleasing and satisfying. By letting the slow cooker do most of the work, you end up with tender potatoes and a cheesy, savory filling without the stress of constant monitoring. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, bringing them to a potluck, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these stuffed skins are sure to become a favorite.