When life gets busy, we all crave comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. That’s where Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes comes in. This hearty dish combines tender ham, flavorful green beans, and creamy potatoes in one simple, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for busy days. The best part? You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make a meal that tastes like home cooking at its finest.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or a meal-prep option, this Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes recipe is the answer. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and requires minimal prep—just throw everything into the crockpot, set it, and let the flavors meld together for a few hours. You’ll come back to a mouthwatering, complete meal that’s ready to serve.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for making Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes, as well as offer some helpful tips, variations, and storage suggestions to make this recipe your own.
Why Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes is So Popular
Crockpot meals are loved for their convenience, but this particular recipe is also loved for its nostalgic, comforting flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple seasonings, this dish becomes a flavorful, well-balanced meal that checks all the boxes:
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep, this recipe only takes a few minutes to assemble.
- Hearty and Nutritious: Loaded with protein from ham, vitamins from green beans, and fiber from potatoes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone cooking on a budget.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
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Ingredients for Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
To make this delicious one-pot meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of boneless ham, cut into bite-sized pieces: The ham brings a savory, slightly salty flavor that ties the dish together. You can use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham from the deli section.
- 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed: Fresh green beans add an earthy flavor and pair well with the ham and potatoes. You can use frozen green beans in a pinch, but the texture of fresh beans will hold up better in the crockpot.
- 1 pound of baby potatoes, halved or quartered: Baby potatoes have a creamy texture and cook perfectly in the crockpot. You can use red, yellow, or even fingerling potatoes.
- 1 onion, diced: Onion adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with a savory, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Thyme adds a slightly earthy flavor that complements the potatoes and green beans.
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary: Rosemary gives a fragrant, pine-like aroma that pairs well with ham and potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon of paprika: Paprika adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth: The broth keeps everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, follow these simple steps to make Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before adding the ingredients to the crockpot, wash and prep the produce:
- Trim the ends off the fresh green beans and cut them into 1-2 inch pieces if desired.
- Halve or quarter the baby potatoes, depending on their size.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Assemble the Crockpot
Place the diced ham, trimmed green beans, and chopped potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. By layering the ingredients, you ensure they cook evenly and absorb the seasoning.
Step 3: Add the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Once combined, sprinkle this seasoning mix over the ingredients in the crockpot. This simple blend of spices enhances the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
Step 4: Pour the Broth
Pour 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients. The broth helps create a moist cooking environment, which keeps the ham tender and the potatoes and green beans flavorful.
Step 5: Set the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cook time will depend on your crockpot model and the texture you prefer for the vegetables. Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld together for a rich, comforting dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, check that the potatoes are fork-tender and the green beans are cooked to your liking. Stir the ingredients to ensure they are well mixed, then serve hot. This dish is delicious on its own, or you can pair it with a side salad, crusty bread, or rice.
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Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
Here are some tips to help you make this dish even better:
- Use High-Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham can greatly impact the overall taste of the dish. Look for a smoked or honey-glazed ham for extra flavor.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, for added color and flavor.
- Control the Salt: Since ham can be salty, be cautious when adding additional salt. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- Broth Choice: Chicken broth adds a mild flavor, but if you prefer a more robust taste, use vegetable broth.
- For a Thicker Sauce: If you like a slightly thicker broth, mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir it in until melted and creamy for a comforting twist.
- Herb-Rich Variation: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for a fresh flavor boost.
- Swap the Protein: If you don’t have ham, smoked sausage or even chicken can be substituted for a similar flavor and texture.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Place any leftover Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a covered pan on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that they may become a bit softer during cooking, so add them halfway through if you prefer a firmer texture.
Q: Do I need to brown the ham before adding it to the crockpot?
A: You don’t have to brown the ham, as it will cook thoroughly in the crockpot. However, browning it first can enhance the flavor and add a bit of caramelization.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Simply sauté the onion and garlic in a large pot, then add the rest of the ingredients and simmer on low for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender.
Perfect Pairings for Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
While this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, here are a few side dishes that pair perfectly with it:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is ideal for sopping up the savory broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Steamed Rice: Serve the ham, green beans, and potatoes over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and the convenience of slow cooking, you can enjoy a delicious, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. This one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s so popular. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting meal, and let the warm, home-cooked flavors fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!
