There's nothing quite like the heartwarming aroma of a slow-cooked meal wafting through the house, instantly lifting your spirits. I discovered this delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes after a busy holiday season, when a fridge full of leftover ham was begging for a flavorful revival. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, this dish transforms humble leftovers into a cozy, satisfying feast.
Imagine coming home after a long day to find a hearty stew waiting for you, each bite bursting with tender ham, vibrant green beans, and creamy potatoes. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday gatherings with family. Not only does it make your taste buds dance, but it also allows you to embrace the comfort of home-cooked goodness without the fuss. Let’s dive into this effortless recipe that promises to become a family favorite!
Why is Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy days.
Rich, Hearty Flavor: The smoky ham combined with tender green beans and creamy potatoes creates an unforgettable taste.
Versatile Ingredient Use: Perfect for using up leftover ham, it encourages creativity.
Effortless Cooking: Set it and forget it—just let the slow cooker work its magic!
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Everyone loves this cozy dish, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Discover how to make this delicious meal part of your routine and impress your loved ones with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Ingredients
Dive into the essentials for creating this delightful comfort food!
For the Base
- Ham Bone or Ham Hocks – Adds rich, smoky flavor to the dish; substitute with ham steak or smoked turkey wings if unavailable.
- Cubed Ham – Provides juicy, tender bites throughout; using leftover cooked ham makes it even easier!
- Fresh Green Beans – Offers a crisp texture when fresh, but frozen green beans save time without sacrificing taste.
- Baby Potatoes – Soaks up flavors from the broth; quarter them for quicker cooking or try Yukon Gold for a golden twist.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be a great alternative for a milder flavor.
For Liquid and Flavor
- Chicken Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid, enhancing the overall flavor; vegetable broth is a lighter option if preferred.
- Butter – Boosts richness and tenderness of veggies; bacon fat adds savory depth, while margarine can serve as a dairy-free substitute.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is best, though garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; adjust to taste for your desired kick.
Get ready to savor every bite of this Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes delight!
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by placing the ham bone or hocks into your slow cooker. Layer in the chopped cubed ham, fresh green beans, quartered baby potatoes, diced onion, chicken broth, butter, minced garlic, and black pepper.
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Cooking: Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours, or, if you're in a hurry, switch to high and cook for 4-5 hours. The goal is tender veggies and flavorful ham.
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Final Steps: Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the ham bone or hocks from the slow cooker. Shred any meat off the bone and return it back into the pot, stirring everything together for that ultimate comfort food blend.
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Serving: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve this hearty dish hot, perhaps alongside some warm cornbread or garlicky bread for that added comfort!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: This hearty dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. No need to thaw frozen green beans before adding them to the mix.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
- Leftover Ideas: Use any leftovers creatively in a cozy breakfast hash or as a filling for casseroles. Embrace the delicious versatility of your Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and cube the ham up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The ingredients can also be layered in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerated overnight. When you're ready to cook, simply pour in the chicken broth and set the slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also ensures each bite is just as delicious and comforting as if made fresh that day!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes?
There's nothing like complementing this hearty, comforting dish with sides that enhance its warm flavors and textures.
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Cornbread: The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread pairs beautifully, providing a delightful contrast to the savory stew. Perfect for scooping up all the deliciousness!
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Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread adds a rich, buttery aroma that blends wonderfully with the meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish and brings a refreshing crunch.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor complements the smoky ham, and roasting them until crispy introduces a satisfying texture to your dinner.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and comforting, mac and cheese can turn your meal into a feast, offering a delightful contrast to the meal's heartiness.
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Sliced Apples with Cheese: A unique twist, pairing sweet, crisp apple slices with sharp cheese creates a refreshing palate cleanser that balances the savory dish.
Let your imagination run wild with these sides, and remember, the right pairings will elevate your Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes to a complete feast!
Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for olive oil or coconut oil to create a rich, flavorful base without dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat and add a new flavor dimension.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic twist that enhances the comforting flavors.
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Vegetable Medley: Add in sliced carrots or bell peppers for added color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch in each bite, transforming the dish into a veggie-packed delight.
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Different Meats: Substitute smoked sausage or leftover turkey for a change; this will introduce a completely new flavor profile while keeping the heartiness.
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Loaded Potatoes: Mash half of the baby potatoes and stir them back in for a creamier texture, creating a hybrid stew that’s absolutely comforting.
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Sweet Addition: Toss in a handful of sweet corn or peas towards the final hour of cooking for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory.
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Grain Base: Serve the dish over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a hearty grain addition that makes each serving even more filling.
Getting creative makes cooking even more enjoyable, and these variations promise to deliver unique and delicious experiences every time!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
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Layer Wisely: Place potatoes on top of the ham during cooking to avoid mushiness, ensuring they stay intact and flavorful.
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Flavor Boost: If you lack a ham bone, use extra ham hocks instead—they still infuse incredible flavor into the dish.
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Veggie Variety: Consider throwing in additional vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and a fun twist on the classic recipe.
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On the Stovetop: If time is short, this dish can also be cooked on the stove. Just simmer on medium heat for about 30 minutes for a quicker option.
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Final Adjustments: Just before serving, brighten the flavors with a sprinkle of salt or a splash of vinegar, which really elevates your Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes dish.
Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes, look for a ham bone or hocks that has a good amount of meat left. If you're using leftover ham, ensure it's juicy and minimally processed for the best results. If unavailable, smoked turkey wings can also impart a lovely depth.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain its texture and flavor. If you're not planning to eat it right away, consider freezing it for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to label them with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, there's no need to thaw the green beans—just add them directly to the mixture during reheating!
What should I do if my potatoes turn mushy?
Very! If you've found that your potatoes have turned mushy, consider adjusting how you layer them in the slow cooker next time. Place them on top of the ham and other ingredients during cooking to maintain their texture. You could also try using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, which hold their shape better during cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile for dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is certified gluten-free. If you're concerned about allergies, this recipe is nut-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with margarine. Remember to check that any ham you use is compliant with your dietary beliefs.
Can I add any other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, indeed! The more the merrier! You can easily include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into similar sizes as your baby potatoes to ensure even cooking. Mix and match to suit your family’s preferences!
Cozy In: Slow Cooker Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the ham bone or hocks into your slow cooker. Layer in the chopped cubed ham, fresh green beans, quartered baby potatoes, diced onion, chicken broth, butter, minced garlic, and black pepper.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours, or if you're in a hurry, switch to high and cook for 4-5 hours.
- Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the ham bone or hocks from the slow cooker. Shred any meat off the bone and return it back into the pot, stirring everything together.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve this hearty dish hot, perhaps alongside some warm cornbread or garlicky bread.
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