If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself while you relax, you have to try this Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe. It’s the ultimate weeknight winner, combining tender ham, fresh green beans, and perfectly cooked potatoes all infused with savory seasonings and rich chicken stock. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a deliciously cozy dish bursting with flavor and texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special something to the table. From the smoky depth of the ham to the earthy potatoes and crisp-tender green beans, every element plays a crucial role in creating the recipe’s balance of flavor and texture.
- Ham shank or ham/smoked sausage, 2 pounds: Provides smoky, savory richness that’s the heart of the dish.
- Small red or yellow potatoes, 2 pounds: Tender and starchy, they soak up all those delightful flavors as they cook.
- Large yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the mix with every bite.
- Fresh green beans, 2 pounds: Brings vibrant color and a fresh, crisp contrast in texture.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Infuses a gentle punch of garlic that enhances the overall savoriness.
- Onion powder, 1 teaspoon: Strengthens the onion flavor with a subtle but essential boost.
- Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste): Balances and elevates all the natural ingredients.
- Freshly ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste): Adds a mild, warming spice.
- Chicken stock, 4–6 cups: The secret weapon that keeps everything moist and infuses the dish with a rich, savory base.
How to Make Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ham Base
Start by placing your ham shank or the cut ham or smoked sausage pieces into the bottom of the crockpot. This base will slowly release its smoky juices as it cooks, creating a flavorful foundation for the entire dish. The bone-in shank, if you use it, especially enhances the broth with a rich depth.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, pile the potatoes, chopped onions, and fresh green beans right on top of the ham. No need to stir; the layers stack up and slowly meld in the crockpot’s gentle heat. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over everything to distribute flavor well throughout the dish.
Step 3: Add the Chicken Stock
Pour 4 to 6 cups of chicken stock over all the ingredients, making sure the liquid covers the vegetables and meat. This not only keeps the potatoes tender but also creates the savory broth that brings the entire Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe together. Feel free to add a little more stock if needed, depending on your crockpot size.
Step 4: Set and Forget
Cover your crockpot and cook the dish on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The slow cooking allows the potatoes to become pillowy soft, the green beans to retain a little bite, and the ham to heat through and flavor everything beautifully. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible as it simmers away.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Once cooked, remove the ham shank bone if you used it. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the delicious juices with all the ingredients. Now you’re ready to serve a wonderfully balanced, comforting meal that requires minimal effort but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors if you want a little zing. These simple additions not only make your presentation pop but add layers of flavor that complement the hearty ingredients.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light green salad. A crisp apple slaw or simple coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, tender crockpot mix.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style straight from the crockpot for a cozy, casual vibe. Alternatively, plate it neatly by mounding the potatoes and green beans and topping with generous slices or chunks of ham. This makes for a more elegant presentation if you’re entertaining guests or want to elevate the everyday meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining their wonderful flavors and textures so you can enjoy them again without losing any of that savory goodness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion out the cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of chicken stock or water to keep the potatoes and beans moist, stirring occasionally. This ensures every bite stays just as tender and flavorful as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage instead of ham?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even a spiral-cut ham work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be mindful of the saltiness and adjust seasoning accordingly to keep the balance just right.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Not at all! Using small red or yellow potatoes with the skins on adds texture and nutrients, plus it helps the potatoes hold their shape during slow cooking.
Can I substitute frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used if fresh ones aren’t available, but add them halfway through cooking to prevent them from turning mushy.
Is it necessary to use chicken stock?
Chicken stock is preferred for the rich flavor it imparts, but you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with a little seasoning if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor will be milder.
What if my crockpot doesn’t have a low setting?
No worries! Cooking on high for about 4 hours, as specified, works perfectly. Just check for doneness since crockpots can vary slightly in temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe is truly one of those go-to meals that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. It’s easy to make, full of comforting flavors, and ideal for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy weekdays. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the fantastic tastes that come from such simple, wholesome ingredients cooked together with care. You’re going to love how effortless and satisfying this recipe is!
Print
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (high) to 8 hours (low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) to 8 hours 15 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Crockpot recipe featuring tender ham, fresh green beans, and flavorful potatoes slow-cooked together with savory seasonings and chicken stock. Perfect for an easy and satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 ham shank with plenty of meat on the bone OR 2 pounds ham or smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
Vegetables
- 2 pounds small red or yellow potatoes, or potatoes cut into 2–3 inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, rinsed and trimmed
Seasonings & Liquids
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4–6 cups chicken stock, plus more as needed
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Place the ham shank (or ham/sausage pieces) at the bottom of the crockpot to serve as the flavorful base for the dish.
- Add vegetables and seasoning: Layer the potatoes, chopped onions, and green beans evenly on top of the meat. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over all ingredients to season thoroughly.
- Add liquid: Pour the chicken stock over the layered ingredients ensuring it covers the contents well. Add more stock if necessary to keep everything submerged and moist during cooking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours, or on high heat for about 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the ham is heated through, infused with the rich flavors from the stock and seasonings.
- Serve: Before serving, remove the ham shank bone carefully if used. Serve hot as a well-balanced, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Notes
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- If using a ham shank, be sure to remove the bone before serving.
- You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and are great reheated.
- For a thicker broth, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
