This recipe for crock pot ham and green beans delivers a delicious, easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the green beans with the savory flavors of the ham for a truly satisfying dish. Forget complicated recipes and enjoy this simple, yet elegant meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
What Kind of Ham Should I Use?
This recipe works best with a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires pre-cooking). A bone-in ham adds more flavor to the cooking liquid and results in more tender, flavorful green beans. However, you can certainly use a boneless ham steak or leftover cooked ham if that's what you have on hand. Just be sure the ham is fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker.
How Long Do I Cook Ham and Green Beans in a Crock Pot?
Cooking time depends on the size of your ham and the type of slow cooker you're using. For a 2-4 pound bone-in ham, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours is usually sufficient. If using a smaller ham steak or leftover ham, you may only need 2-3 hours on low or 1-1.5 hours on high. Always ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat. The green beans will become tender during this time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions. Adding these vegetables about an hour before the cooking time is complete ensures they're cooked through but still retain some texture. Consider adding a diced onion at the beginning for extra flavor.
What About Seasoning?
Simple seasoning is key to letting the ham flavor shine. A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and perhaps a dash of garlic powder or onion powder are all you need. However, you can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. A bay leaf added to the slow cooker infuses a subtle savory aroma.
How Do I Make it Extra Flavorful?
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a cup of chicken or ham broth to the slow cooker. This adds moisture and enhances the overall taste of the dish. You can also deglaze the pan if you initially browned the ham before placing it in the slow cooker; this captures those delicious browned bits.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, however, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Since frozen green beans already contain some moisture, they might not need as much time to cook. Add frozen green beans about halfway through the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans?
This simple dish pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread, cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. It’s a complete meal on its own, so you don’t need many additions.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare it ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and let it cook overnight on the low setting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans recipe provides a delicious and convenient meal that requires minimal effort. By following these tips and suggestions, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish your family will love. Remember to always prioritize food safety and ensure your ham is cooked to the proper temperature.
