Mouthwatering Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot simmering away during a chilly evening. Just picture it: the savory scent of ham melding with the earthy aroma of fresh green beans and tender Yukon Gold potatoes. I discovered this dish during a week when life felt particularly hectic, and I craved something hearty yet effortless. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in how it brings a wholesome, home-cooked meal to the table with minimal fuss.

Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot

As the ingredients slow-cook throughout the day, they meld together to create a delightful symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish effortlessly pleases everyone’s palate. Join me as we delve into this easy, nourishing meal that makes busy days feel a little lighter and home cooking a joy. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why choose Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot?

Ease of Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it!

Flavor Harmony: The slow cooking allows the ham, green beans, and potatoes to meld into a delicious, savory masterpiece.

Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal that nourishes the body.

Perfect for All Occasions: Whether for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe fits every scenario.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a comforting, home-cooked meal, making it ideal for gatherings!

Minimal Cleanup: One-pot wonder means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal!

Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Ingredients

• Discover the simple ingredients that make this comforting dish shine!

For the Main Dish

Ham steak – cubed for easy melting into each bite, this provides a savory flavor base.
Fresh green beans – trimmed and chopped to add a vibrant crunch and nutrition to your meal.
Yukon Gold potatoes – quartered, they offer a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the ham.
Yellow onion – sliced to release its natural sweetness as it cooks, enriching the overall flavor.

For Seasoning

Garlic powder – adds a rich, aromatic depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
Salt & pepper – to taste; these essential seasonings enhance the flavors of your dish.

For the Cooking Liquid

Low-sodium chicken broth – provides moisture and boosts flavor, ensuring the ham, green beans, and potatoes are perfectly tender.

How to Make Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot

Prepare Ingredients: Start by washing and trimming the green beans, cubing the ham, and quartering the Yukon Gold potatoes. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Layer the Crockpot: Place the quartered potatoes at the bottom of your crockpot. Next, add the sliced onions and chopped green beans. Finally, tuck the cubed ham on top of the vegetables for a flavorful base.
Season Generously: Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Make sure everything is well-seasoned to maximize the flavor in every bite.
Add Broth: Carefully pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the layered ingredients until they are just covered. This will help everything cook evenly and stay moist.
Cook Until Tender: Set your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is tender and inviting.
Stir and Serve: Gently stir the mixture before serving, adding more broth if it looks a bit dry. This simple step ensures that every spoonful is deliciously juicy!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition. Avoid pre-packaged options that can lack taste.
Layering Matters: Layering potatoes at the bottom ensures they cook thoroughly, while green beans placed above won’t turn mushy during cooking.
Seasoning Balance: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Tasting and adjusting throughout cooking can elevate the overall flavor of your Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot.
Check for Tenderness: Cooking times can vary based on your crockpot. Always check the tenderness of the vegetables and ham before serving to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth enjoyment!
Save Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They make for a delightful next-day lunch or dinner!

Storage Tips for Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your tasty Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes stay fresh and avoid any off-flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture if needed.

Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot even more appealing!

Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to infuse a rich, smoky essence that enhances the ham’s savoriness.
Herb Infusion: Toss in a few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, garden-fresh touch. They beautifully elevate the dish!
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ham with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth to create a hearty vegetarian alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a luxurious creaminess that ties everything together.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that adds warmth without overpowering the dish.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving, allowing it to melt into a gooey, flavorful layer. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Sweet Twist: Include a cup of diced sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and extra nutrition that harmonizes beautifully with the savory elements.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish with a zesty contrast that balances the richness of the ham and broth.

What to Serve with Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of your main dish.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory broth, a warm slice of bread adds a delightful texture.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The richness of macaroni and cheese provides a comforting contrast to the savory, light flavors of the ham and veggies.
Tangy Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw add a refreshing element, balancing the hearty ingredients of the main dish.
Garlic Butter Corn: Sweet and tender corn sautéed with garlic butter makes for a delightful side that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp for dessert wraps up the meal with a sweet, cinnamon-infused finish that’s reminiscent of home.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea with lemon offers a perfect balance against the rich flavors of your dinner.
Sautéed Garlic Spinach: Bright spinach cooked with garlic adds a nutritious element while still keeping things simple and elegant.
Pickled Vegetables: For a tangy crunch, serving pickles or pickled vegetables can enhance the savory and earthy tones of the dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the green beans, cube the ham, and quarter the Yukon Gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepared ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and flavor. On the day you’re ready to cook, layer the potatoes, onions, green beans, and ham in your crockpot, season generously, and pour the low-sodium chicken broth over all the ingredients. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that feels just as delicious as if you made it from scratch all at once!

Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crockpot Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best green beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh green beans, look for those that are vibrant green and crisp. Avoid beans with dark spots or signs of wilting, as they won’t have the best flavor or texture. Firm, straight beans will give you that delightful crunch in your dish.

How should I store leftovers of Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes?
Very! To keep your delicious leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors again without worrying about spoilage. Make sure to allow your dish to cool completely before sealing the container to preserve that great taste!

Can I freeze Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes?
Definitely! To freeze, first allow the dish to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s a little space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s looking a bit dry.

What if my potatoes don’t cook through?
No worries! If you find that your potatoes are still firm after the cooking time, simply re-cover the crockpot and let them cook a little longer, checking every 30 minutes or so. You can also try cutting them into smaller pieces in the first place to ensure they cook evenly with the other ingredients.

Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
Absolutely! If you’re serving anyone with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adapted. You can use low-sodium turkey ham for a leaner protein option, and if you’re catering to a gluten-free diet, double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always consider asking guests about any allergies prior to serving.

How can I make this dish suitable for my pets?
Very! If you want to share a little bit with your furry friends, you can prepare a pet-friendly version by omitting the salt and garlic powder, as both can be harmful to pets. Steam some plain green beans and potatoes for them, but always check with your veterinarian about any specific dietary needs they may have.