Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes

Description

This hearty one-pot meal combines tender chunks of ham, fresh green beans, and potatoes slowly simmered in a savory broth until perfectly cooked. It’s an easy, budget-friendly comfort food that delivers rich flavor with minimal preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or using up leftover holiday ham.

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Servings

6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) smoked ham chunks or ham hocks
• 1½ lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1½ lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Wash and trim green beans. Peel and cube potatoes. Dice onion and mince garlic.

Step 2: Layer in Slow Cooker

Place ham in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add onions, garlic, green beans, and potatoes.

Step 3: Season

Sprinkle with black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour chicken broth over everything and add butter on top.

Step 5: Cook

• Low: 7–8 hours
• High: 4–5 hours

Cook until potatoes are fork-tender and ham is falling apart.

Step 6: Serve

Stir gently and serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread.

Recipe Notes

• Fresh green beans provide the best texture.
• Leftover holiday ham works wonderfully.
• Red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well.
• Ham hocks add a deeper smoky flavor but require removing bones before serving.

Helpful Tips

For More Flavor

• Add a smoked turkey leg or ham hock.
• Use homemade chicken stock.

For Thicker Broth

Mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth before serving.

For Extra Vegetables

Add:

• Carrots
• Celery
• Cabbage
• Corn

Make It Spicy

Add:

• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Cajun seasoning
• Diced jalapeños

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving)

Values vary depending on the type of ham and broth used.

Health Benefits

Protein-Rich

Ham provides high-quality protein that supports muscle maintenance and satiety.

Good Source of Fiber

Green beans contribute dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

Potassium Support

Potatoes provide potassium, important for heart and muscle function.

Comforting and Filling

The combination of protein, vegetables, and starch creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Budget-Friendly

Uses simple ingredients that feed a family economically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned green beans?

A: Yes. Add them during the last 30–45 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I make this on the stovetop?

A: Absolutely. Simmer covered for 1½–2 hours until the ham and potatoes are tender.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Q: How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

A: 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use other meats?

A: Yes. Smoked turkey, kielbasa, bacon, or smoked sausage are excellent substitutes.

Q: Why are my potatoes mushy?

A: They may have cooked too long or were cut too small. Use larger chunks and check for doneness earlier.