Get ready to fall in love with this ham green bean potato crock pot recipe, a dish that combines simplicity with deliciousness. Great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into the crock pot and let it do the work. Perfect for those who love good food but hate complicated recipes.
- Flavorful: The combination of ham, green beans, and potatoes creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry. A great way to use up leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed and halved
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Crock pot or slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your ham into bite-sized pieces. Trim the ends off your green beans and cut them in half if they’re too long. Cube your potatoes into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Begin by adding the diced ham to the bottom of the crock pot. Follow with the green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Pour the chicken broth over the top, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. This layering technique helps the flavors meld together beautifully as they cook.
Step 3: Season and Cook
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil for an extra layer of flavor. Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to develop more deeply, but if you’re short on time, the high setting works just fine.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
After the cooking time has elapsed, check that the potatoes are tender by piercing them with a fork. If they’re not quite done, give them another 30 minutes to an hour. The green beans should be soft but still have a bit of bite to them, and the ham will be wonderfully tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked to perfection, give the mixture a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. Serve hot, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. This dish is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider browning the ham in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. This step adds a delicious caramelized flavor that can’t be beaten. If you prefer your green beans with more crunch, add them during the last hour of cooking. And for those who love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. Remember, the key to a great crock pot meal is patience; resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this can significantly increase cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more substance.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who like it hot.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans work just as well as fresh in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the crock pot. Keep in mind that they may release more water as they cook, so you might want to reduce the amount of broth slightly.
How can I thicken the broth?
If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove some of the potatoes, mash them, and stir them back in to naturally thicken the broth.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare it as directed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. You may need to add a bit more broth when you’re ready to cook, as the ingredients will absorb some of the liquid while stored.
Summary
This ham green bean potato crock pot recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, hearty meals. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.