The moment the sun starts to dip below the horizon, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen, promising a warm meal to end the day. This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes recipe is my go-to for those evenings when I crave something hearty yet effortless. It's a delightful one-pot dish that not only brings the family together but also requires minimal prep—just 15 minutes! Imagine tossing in fresh ingredients and letting the slow cooker work its magic, while you focus on more important things. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in loads of wholesome vegetables, making it a nourishing choice for everyone at the table. Are you ready to discover how this simple, satisfying meal can transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just 15 minutes of prep, this meal allows you to enjoy hearty home-cooked goodness without the fuss.
Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of savory ham, fresh green beans, and tender potatoes creates a delightful taste that resonates with comfort.
Versatile and customizable: Use your favorite meats or swap in seasonal veggies; this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table and leave them asking for seconds.
Time-saving convenience: Set your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax or tackle other tasks, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes Ingredients
For the Main Dish
• Ham shank or smoked sausage – a meaty base that infuses the dish with rich, smoky flavors.
• Small red or yellow potatoes – ensure tender, bite-sized pieces that absorb all the delicious broth.
• Large yellow onion – adds sweetness and depth to every flavor layer in the pot.
• Fresh green beans – vibrant and nutritious, these make the dish feel fresh and colorful.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic powder – brings warmth and a subtle kick that's classic in comforting dishes.
• Onion powder – enhances the onion flavor without adding extra prep time.
• Kosher salt – adjust to taste; it ensures all flavors are perfectly balanced.
• Freshly ground black pepper – a little spice helps to elevate the entire dish!
For the Broth
• Chicken stock – this layers flavor throughout the dish; feel free to adjust the amount for desired brothiness.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes. Chop the large yellow onion into 1-inch pieces and rinse the fresh green beans, trimming both ends. Cut your ham shank or sausage into 1-inch pieces if necessary. This prep ensures everything is ready to go when you start layering in the crockpot.
Step 2: Layer the Ham
Place the pieces of ham shank or smoked sausage at the bottom of the crockpot. Having this meaty base will infuse the dish with savory flavors as it cooks. Make sure to spread the pieces evenly; this allows for better heat distribution, ensuring every bite is delightful.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, layer the small red or yellow potatoes on top of the ham, followed by the chopped onions and rinsed green beans. This colorful assembly not only provides nutrition but also adds a gorgeous aesthetic to your meal. As you're layering, consider how each ingredient will soak in the flavors from below.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over the layered ingredients. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring every element shines through. Make sure to distribute the seasonings well to get that perfect taste in every bite as the dish cooks.
Step 5: Pour in the Chicken Stock
Carefully pour 4 to 6 cups of chicken stock over the entire mixture in the crockpot, ensuring the liquid covers the contents. If you feel the need, add more stock to achieve a brothy consistency that you desire. This stock will serve as the flavor base that melds all the ingredients together.
Step 6: Cook and Let It Meld
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is for the potatoes to become tender and for the flavors to intermingle beautifully. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as it will let precious heat escape and extend the cooking time.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Once the cooking time is up, carefully taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt or pepper depending on your preference. Gently stir all the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors and prepare to serve your comforting Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes!
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own—there's no limit to the deliciousness you can create!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap chicken stock for a vegetable or meat stock for a rich, yet dairy-free base that still delivers on flavor.
-
Vegan: Replace the ham with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. Load up on extra veggies like carrots or mushrooms for heartiness.
-
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix before cooking for a delightful kick of heat. It’s an easy way to jazz things up!
-
Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the last hour of cooking for an aromatic lift that enhances the overall flavor.
-
Smoky Twist: Use liquid smoke or smoked paprika to give the dish a unique, smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the ham.
-
Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a rich, creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly.
-
Root Veggie Remix: Replace half of the potatoes with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a touch of sweetness and an interesting flavor twist.
-
Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon or orange juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors and bring everything together beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, ensuring the meal stays fresh and ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; this makes for convenient, delicious meals anytime!
Thawing: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge; this promotes even heating and retains the flavors of your Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes.
Reheating: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary to prevent drying out; enjoy every comforting bite!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes
• Perfect Meat Choice: Use a ham shank with a good amount of meat, or try smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Layering Matters: Make sure to layer the ingredients in the crockpot correctly—meat at the bottom, followed by potatoes and then veggies—for the best flavor infusion.
• Stock Level Check: Adjust the chicken stock based on your preference for brothiness; too little results in dry ingredients.
• Seasoning Balance: Always taste and adjust seasoning toward the end of cooking; this ensures your Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes have the perfect flavor.
• No Peeking: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking; it releases heat and can affect cooking time and tenderness of the potatoes.
• Reheat Safely: When storing leftovers, add a splash of stock when reheating to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the meal.
What to Serve with Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes
When you're ready to gather around the table, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the warmth of your meal.
-
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender ingredients. Enjoy a hearty slice next to your dish for an ideal complement!
-
Cornbread: This slightly sweet, fluffy option enhances the savory flavors of the Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes while bringing an inviting, homey feel to the dining experience.
-
Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing balance that brightens your plate.
-
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots add extra color and texture, while their subtle flavors work harmoniously with the ham and spices. A nutrient-rich addition to keep things wholesome!
-
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy and slightly sweet, this dish offers a comforting alternative to regular mashed potatoes, enriching your meal with delightful flavor contrast.
-
Homemade Applesauce: The natural sweetness of applesauce pairs wonderfully with savory ham, creating a lovely balance of flavors that’s sure to satisfy every palate.
-
Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish, adding a refreshing note that enhances the overall dining experience.
-
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of moist chocolate cake adds a decadent end to your meal, creating a perfect sweet contrast after the savory casserole. Each bite is a delightful treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can chop the vegetables, dice the ham, and layer everything in the crockpot up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared crockpot mixture overnight to maintain freshness. When it's time to cook, just add the chicken stock and set the crockpot to your desired cooking mode. This method saves you precious minutes on hectic evenings, allowing you to enjoy a nourishing meal with minimal effort. Rest assured, the flavors will meld beautifully, ensuring your dish is just as delicious as if you made it on the same day!
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Using a ham shank with plenty of meat on the bone adds rich, savory flavors to the dish. Alternatively, you can use smoked sausage for a slightly different profile, which is just as delicious.
How do I store leftovers from this recipe?
Very simple! Cool any leftovers quickly and transfer them to airtight containers. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to label them so you can easily find this comforting dish for a quick meal!
Can I freeze Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes, and how?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and they will last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the portions overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
What if my dish turns out too dry?
No need to worry! If you find your Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes are a bit dry after cooking, simply add a splash of chicken stock before reheating. This will restore moisture and enhance the flavor, making it just as comforting as the first time around.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If anyone at your table has dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free chicken stock and checking the ham or sausage labels for any allergens. This recipe is also hearty enough for omnivores and vegetarians alike—just substitute with vegetable stock and add more veggies for a satisfying meatless version.
How can I tell when the potatoes are done?
To ensure your potatoes are perfectly tender, use a fork to poke one. If it slides right through with no resistance, you’ve nailed it! On the flip side, if there’s still some firmness, give them a little more time to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Delicious Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients. Chop the onion into 1-inch pieces and rinse the green beans, trimming both ends. Cut the ham into 1-inch pieces if necessary.
- Place the pieces of ham at the bottom of the crockpot, spreading them evenly for better heat distribution.
- Layer the small potatoes on top of the ham, followed by the chopped onions and rinsed green beans.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Pour 4 to 6 cups of chicken stock over the entire mixture, ensuring the liquid covers the contents.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the cooking time is up, taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Gently stir all ingredients together before serving.
Leave a Reply