Crockpot Ham Green Beans and Potatoes is a classic Southern-style comfort dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty and satisfying one-pot meal. This slow-cooked recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, Sunday suppers, or feeding a crowd during the holidays. With salty ham, tender potatoes, and crisp green beans all simmered in savory broth, the flavor builds beautifully as it cooks low and slow. Minimal prep and hands-free cooking make this a favorite for home cooks who want big flavor with little effort. Whether you use leftover ham from a holiday roast or a ham hock for extra depth, this dish offers the kind of nostalgic warmth that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ham (cubed or leftover ham bone)
- 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes or red potatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or enough to just cover the ingredients)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste (ham may already be salty)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for richness
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Preparation
Step 1: Wash and trim the green beans. Cut the potatoes into halves or quarters depending on size. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Add potatoes, green beans, and onion to the bottom of the crockpot. Place cubed ham or ham bone over the top of the vegetables.
Step 3: Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients. Add garlic, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Do not add salt yet—wait until the end to taste and adjust.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and green beans are cooked through but not mushy.
Step 5: Stir gently before serving. Taste the broth and season with salt if needed. Add a tablespoon of butter for extra flavor if desired. Garnish with parsley or green onions if serving for guests.
Variation
- Ham Hock or Smoked Turkey: Use a ham hock or smoked turkey leg for deeper smoky flavor and remove bones before serving
- Add Carrots: Include sliced carrots for a bit of sweetness and color
- Make It Creamy: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream during the last 30 minutes for a creamy twist
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or a bay leaf during cooking for extra aroma
- Low Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets added during the last hour of cooking
Cooking Note
When using a leftover ham bone, be sure to remove any large bones before serving. Ham can vary greatly in salt content, so always wait until the end to season with salt. Fresh green beans are ideal, but frozen green beans can be used if added during the last 2 hours of cooking. The longer the dish cooks, the more the flavors will meld, especially with bone-in ham or smoked meat. This dish can easily be doubled in a 6-quart crockpot for meal prep or larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Ham Green Beans and Potatoes can be served as a complete meal on its own, thanks to the balanced mix of protein, starch, and vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, or crusty rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. For a holiday table, serve it as a rustic side dish alongside glazed ham or roast turkey. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew. Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips
- For extra depth, sear ham cubes in a skillet before adding to the crockpot
- Use baby Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture that holds up well
- Keep green beans on top for firmer texture or stir them in for softer results
- If you prefer less broth, reduce liquid by 1 cup or uncover for the last 30 minutes to thicken
- This recipe is excellent for using leftover holiday ham
- For more flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce before serving
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 375 per serving
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 890mg (adjust depending on broth and ham)
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
- Canned green beans are not recommended for this recipe as they become mushy after long cooking. If needed, add them in the last 30 minutes.
How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Assemble all ingredients the night before in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate. Cook the next morning as usual.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes. Cool completely and store in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to maintain texture.
Can I use water instead of broth?
- Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Add extra herbs or a bouillon cube for more depth.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?
- This dish can be simmered in a Dutch oven on the stovetop for 1.5 to 2 hours, or baked covered at 325°F for 2 hours.
Conclusion
Crockpot Ham Green Beans and Potatoes is a delicious, no-fuss recipe that brings together hearty ingredients in a flavorful, soul-warming broth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, post-holiday meals, or when you need a comforting dish that feeds the whole family. The blend of tender vegetables and savory ham cooked low and slow creates a rustic, down-home classic that never disappoints. Once you try this version, it’s bound to become a repeat recipe in your slow cooker lineup.