This hearty and flavorful one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Crock pot green beans, ham, and potatoes require minimal prep time and offer maximum deliciousness. The slow cooking process infuses the vegetables with the smoky sweetness of the ham, creating a truly comforting dish. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand – feel free to experiment!
What Makes This Crock Pot Recipe So Great?
This recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: Minimal chopping and prep work are needed, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, reducing cleanup time significantly.
- Flavorful Combination: The combination of salty ham, tender potatoes, and crisp green beans is irresistible.
- Adaptability: You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is great for making ahead of time and reheating.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb bone-in ham, cut into 1-inch cubes (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1 lb small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the ham, potatoes, green beans, onion, garlic, chicken broth, brown sugar (if using), thyme, pepper, and salt. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Cook on Low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or brown sugar depending on your preference.
- Serve: Serve warm. This dish is delicious on its own or as a side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute Yukon gold potatoes, russet potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes cook at different rates. You might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Sweet potatoes will require slightly less cooking time.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, you might want to reduce the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables cook faster than fresh ones. Add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes and green beans so they cook evenly.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Combine all the ingredients, pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crock Pot Meal:
- Don't overcrowd your slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Trim your green beans: Trimming the ends ensures even cooking and prevents tough ends.
- Taste and adjust: Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking throughout the cooking process.
- Thicken the broth (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
This Crock Pot Green Beans, Ham, and Potatoes recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
