Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

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Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes: A Hearty One-Pot Comfort Meal

When it comes to simple, wholesome comfort food, Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes stands out as a classic. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and savory seasonings, this slow-cooked meal is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings warmth to your kitchen and your dinner table, offering a satisfying, well-rounded meal with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a make-ahead meal with leftovers to spare, this recipe delivers on every front. Tender baby potatoes, juicy ham, and vibrant green beans come together in a seasoned broth, cooked low and slow until everything is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Why Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Is a Must-Try

  • Effortless Preparation: Dump-and-go slow cooker meals are perfect for busy days.
  • Balanced and Hearty: Protein, veggies, and starch in one satisfying dish.
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
  • Full of Flavor: Herbs and spices infuse deep, comforting flavor throughout the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this comforting crockpot classic, you’ll need:

  • 1 pound boneless ham, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)

Step-by-Step Instructions

🥘 1. Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

Begin by adding the prepared ham, green beans, potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic into the base of your slow cooker.

This layering method ensures even cooking and flavor absorption as the dish simmers throughout the day.

🌿 2. Mix and Add the Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together:

  • Thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Sprinkle this savory blend of herbs and spices evenly over the ingredients in the crockpot. These seasonings infuse every bite with earthy warmth and aromatic depth.

🥣 3. Add the Broth

Pour 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth over the mixture. This not only adds flavor but also ensures that the dish remains moist and tender during cooking.

For extra richness, consider using a homemade bone broth or a broth seasoned with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

⏲️ 4. Cook Low and Slow

  • Cover the crockpot with the lid.
  • Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, depending on your schedule.

You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, the green beans are perfectly soft but not mushy, and the ham is juicy and infused with flavor.

🍽️ 5. Serve and Enjoy

Give the mixture a gentle stir, and serve hot straight from the crockpot. This dish pairs beautifully with a slice of cornbread, crusty dinner rolls, or a fresh garden salad.

Optional garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving for a touch of brightness.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

✅ Choose the Right Ham

Use thick-cut boneless ham, or leftover holiday ham for extra flavor. Smoked ham adds depth, while sweeter hams balance the savory ingredients beautifully.

✅ Don’t Overcook the Green Beans

If you prefer crisper green beans, add them during the last 2 hours of cooking instead of at the beginning.

✅ Make It Creamy

Add a splash of heavy cream or a scoop of cream cheese toward the end of cooking for a creamier twist.

Serving Suggestions and Add-Ons

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate it with these simple additions:

  • Cornbread or Biscuits: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
  • Grated Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or Parmesan just before serving.
  • Hot Sauce or Mustard: A little heat or tang goes a long way for contrast.
  • Chopped Greens: Add kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes for extra nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

🧊 Storing Leftovers

  • Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature.
  • Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🔥 Reheating

  • Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warm.
  • Or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

❄️ Freezing

Yes, this dish can be frozen! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as usual.

Why This Recipe Is a Timeless Classic

Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes is a true comfort food staple, rooted in American home-cooking traditions. It’s hearty, humble, and nourishing—reminiscent of the slow-simmered meals our grandmothers made.

It doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients or complex techniques. Instead, it’s a dish that honors simplicity, using fresh produce, seasoned meat, and a blend of herbs to deliver bold, soul-satisfying flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this dish makes it easy to feed your family something warm, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.

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