# Cheesy Ham and Rice Slow Cooker Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Slow cookers are a busy home cook’s best friend, and this Cheesy Ham and Rice recipe is a delicious testament to that. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy family meal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By combining a few basic ingredients like ham, cheese, rice, and vegetables, you create a hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, infusing the ingredients with flavor over several hours, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.

## Ingredients:

– 2 cups of cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups of long-grain rice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn are a great combination)
– 1 can (400g) of cream of mushroom soup
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

## Instructions:

1. Prepare your slow cooker by greasing the inside with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that your delicious meal comes out cleanly later.

2. Start by layering the ingredients in the slow cooker. First, spread the diced ham evenly across the bottom. Then, add the rice, making sure it covers the ham. Next, sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the rice.

3. In a medium bowl, combine the broth, frozen vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the layers in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Let the magic happen and cook for approximately 4 to 5 hours. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender, and the cheese will melt beautifully.

5. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. This final touch adds a delightful cheesy crust to your dish. Re-cover the slow cooker and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Once ready, carefully remove the ceramic insert from the slow cooker and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This brief rest allows the ingredients to settle, ensuring a neater serving.

7. Serve this hearty meal directly from the slow cooker or transfer it to a serving dish. The cheesy ham and rice will be a hit with family and friends, offering a satisfying blend of flavors in every bite.

## Tips and Variations:

– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can add unique flavors to this dish.
– For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with cooked lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.
– If you prefer a creamier texture, add half a cup of sour cream along with the cheese and milk.
– For a heartier meal, toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions and garlic.

This recipe is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy a warm, filling meal. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have a fantastic dinner ready without much effort. Enjoy the comforting flavors of cheesy ham and rice, perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday afternoon.