Crock pot green beans and ham is the epitome of comfort food – a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you to maximize your time while creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The slow cooking process infuses the green beans with the smoky richness of the ham, resulting in a tender and subtly sweet side dish that complements a wide range of main courses. Whether you're serving a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
What Makes this Crock Pot Green Bean Recipe So Special?
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and versatility. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the green beans to become perfectly tender while absorbing the delicious ham flavor. It's also incredibly adaptable; you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.
Beyond the basics: Don't limit yourself to just ham! Consider adding other ingredients like onions, garlic, bacon, or even a splash of chicken broth for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup diced ham (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, but adds moisture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them thoroughly. If using larger beans, you may want to halve them for even cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the trimmed green beans, diced ham, chicken broth (if using), olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
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Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA):
Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen green beans. Just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing. You may need to add a little extra cooking time, perhaps an additional hour on low, to ensure they are fully cooked.
What kind of ham is best for this recipe?
Any type of ham will work, but leftover cooked ham is ideal. You can use bone-in or boneless ham, just be sure to dice it into bite-sized pieces. The smoky flavor of a good ham will really enhance the dish.
How do I store leftover crock pot green beans and ham?
Leftover green beans and ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're also great reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! While the recipe is designed for a slow cooker, it can be adapted for the Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to lightly brown the ham, then add the remaining ingredients. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Quick release any remaining pressure.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Green Beans and Ham:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked green beans will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp, not completely soft.
- Season to taste: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or onions.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked sausage or chicken for a more substantial dish.
This Crock Pot Green Beans and Ham recipe is a simple, delicious, and versatile side dish that's perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite!
