Classic Crockpot Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes

by

Classic Crockpot Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes

Description

A slow-cooked, savory one-pot meal made with smoky ham, tender green beans, hearty potatoes, and onions simmered together until perfectly soft and flavorful. This dish is simple, filling, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day—true Southern-style comfort food.

 Servings

6 generous servings

 Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time:

    • Low: 7–8 hours

    • High: 4–5 hours

  • Total Time: ~8 hours (mostly hands-off)

 Ingredients

  • 1 lb smoked ham, cubed

  • 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed

  • 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or russet)

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cups chicken broth (or water)

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

 Instructions

  1. Layer the Crockpot

    • Add potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker.

    • Top with green beans, onion, and ham.

  2. Season

    • Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme evenly over ingredients.

  3. Add Liquid

    • Pour chicken broth over everything.

    • Add butter on top if using.

  4. Cook

    • Cover and cook:

      • Low: 7–8 hours

      • High: 4–5 hours

    • Stir gently once halfway through if possible.

  5. Serve

    • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

    • Serve hot with cornbread or crusty bread.

Notes & Tips

  • Smoked ham hocks or a ham bone add even more flavor

  • Don’t over-salt early—ham is naturally salty

  • Cut potatoes evenly for uniform cooking

  • This dish thickens naturally as it rests

  • Leftovers taste better the next day

Variations

  • Add diced carrots for color and sweetness

  • Use baby potatoes for a rustic look

  • Add crushed red pepper for heat

  • Replace broth with ham stock if available

  • Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving for balance

 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~380

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 40 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Fiber: 6 g

  • Sodium: ~900 mg

(Values vary based on ham and broth used)

 Benefits

  • High in protein

  • Excellent source of fiber and potassium

  • Budget-friendly family meal

  • Easy digestion due to slow cooking

  • Naturally gluten-free

  • Perfect for meal prep

Q & A

Q: Can I use canned green beans?
A: Yes, but add them during the last hour to avoid mushiness.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely—store up to 4 days refrigerated.

Q: Can this be frozen?
A: Yes! Freeze up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Q: Do I need to brown the ham first?
A: Not required, but browning adds extra depth of flavor.

Q: Can I cook it on the stovetop?
A: Yes—simmer covered for 1½–2 hours until tender.

If you’d like, I can:

Leave a Comment