Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes In Crock Pot Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

November 08, 2024

This Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crock Pot recipe is the ultimate comfort meal! Tender ham, fresh green beans, and soft potatoes simmered together in a flavorful broth – simple, hearty, and perfect for any busy day.

Close-up of freshly made Recipe for Ham Green Beans and Potatoes In Crock Pot garnished and ready to serve

If you’ve ever craved a warm, hearty dish that combines smoky ham, tender potatoes, and flavorful green beans, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe for ham, green beans, and potatoes in crock pot. This comforting one-pot meal brings together humble ingredients and transforms them into something incredibly satisfying, with little effort on your part. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—set it and forget it while the Crockpot works its magic to create a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

What is Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in a Crock Pot?

This recipe is a classic comfort food, often made for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a filling, no-fuss meal. The combination of ham, green beans, and potatoes is a match made in heaven. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, making each bite a cozy burst of taste. Whether you’re using leftover ham or cooking up a fresh batch, this dish is the epitome of effortless home-cooked goodness.

This ham, green beans, and potatoes recipe in the Crockpot is particularly great for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. It’s one of those meals that gets better the longer it simmers. It’s perfect for the colder months or any time you’re craving a comforting dish that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or prep. Trust me, once you taste the combination of savory ham, tender potatoes, and the sweetness of the green beans, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crock Pot

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ham (about 1 lb): Choose a ham shank or diced ham. Both work well, but using leftover ham adds even more flavor to the dish. The ham imparts a lovely smoky taste to the entire dish, making it feel more special with minimal effort. If you want to try something different, you could also experiment with smoked sausage.
Potatoes (4-5 medium, peeled and diced): I recommend using a waxy potato, like Yukon Gold, as they hold their shape well in the Crockpot. The potatoes soak up the flavors of the broth and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Avoid using starchy potatoes like Russets, as they break down too much during the long cooking time.
Green Beans (2 cans of 14.5 oz or about 4 cups fresh/frozen): Green beans add color, texture, and freshness to the dish. If using canned, make sure to drain and rinse them first to avoid excess sodium. Fresh or frozen green beans work just as well, adding a bit more vibrancy to the dish.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): A little onion goes a long way in this dish. It helps enhance the savory flavor, adding a mild sweetness as it softens in the slow cooker.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic provides depth of flavor and an aromatic backdrop to the dish. It pairs beautifully with the ham.
Chicken Broth (1 cup): The broth is essential for cooking the potatoes and beans, and it creates the perfect base for the flavors to meld together. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Seasonings (1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp black pepper, salt to taste): These seasonings are simple but pack a punch. The thyme complements the ham’s smoky flavor, while the black pepper adds a gentle kick. Adjust the salt according to your taste and whether your broth is salted.

Optional: Paprika (1/2 tsp) for an added depth of flavor and a dash of color.

Why You’ll Love This Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe

This dish is the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and easy to make. One of the best things about it is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand. If you don’t have ham, try substituting it with smoked sausage or even a leftover rotisserie chicken for a different twist.

The Crockpot is perfect for this recipe because it allows all the flavors to develop slowly, leaving you with a rich, savory meal that’s ready when you are. The potatoes absorb all the flavors from the ham, broth, and seasonings, becoming soft and delicious, while the green beans add a nice contrast with their tenderness and bright, slightly sweet flavor.

Additionally, the ease of making this dish is a big draw. You don’t have to babysit the stove or oven. Just set the Crockpot, let it cook, and go about your day. And by the time you’re ready to eat, you’ve got a filling meal waiting for you. This is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your rotation, especially during busy weeks or when you need something that everyone will love.

When to Serve Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

This recipe for ham, green beans, and potatoes in the Crock Pot is perfect for those moments when you need a meal that satisfies without a lot of fuss. It’s a great dish for:

Weeknight dinners: The simplicity and convenience of this recipe make it ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
Family gatherings: If you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting a potluck, this dish can easily be scaled up and served to a crowd.
Comforting cold-weather meals: This dish is perfect for when the weather gets chilly, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.

If you’re in the mood for something else, try pairing this with some Tippins cornbread or a side of Blue Jam garlic aioli. These sides complement the heartiness of the main dish while adding extra flavor to the meal. You can also take a look at other easy weeknight dinners like Lamb Ragu D'Rose Mary or Pork Con Tiki, which offer similar levels of convenience and flavor.

How to Make Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crock Pot

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this delicious meal. Don’t worry, it’s incredibly easy!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes. If you’re using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into smaller pieces. Dice the ham if it’s not already pre-cut. You can also chop the onion and mince the garlic to save time later.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

The best part about making this in the Crockpot is that you just layer everything in. Start with the potatoes at the bottom. This helps ensure they cook evenly. Then, add the diced ham, followed by the green beans, onion, and garlic. I always recommend sprinkling the seasonings (thyme, pepper, salt, paprika) evenly over the ingredients for a well-rounded flavor profile.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour the chicken broth over everything. The liquid is essential to cook the potatoes and beans, so don’t skimp on it! The broth also makes the base of a delicious, savory sauce that will coat everything as it cooks.

Step 4: Set the Crockpot

Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can set it to high for about 3-4 hours, but slow cooking allows the flavors to really meld together, making the meal even better.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Once the cooking time is up, check the potatoes for tenderness. If they’re easily pierced with a fork, the dish is done. If you feel like the broth could use a little more flavor, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes, a dash more pepper or a pinch of salt makes all the difference.

Tips for Making the Best Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crock Pot

Use leftovers: Leftover ham, particularly from a holiday meal, works wonderfully here. The extra flavor will enhance the dish, making it even better.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or corn for more variety. These would add a lovely sweetness to balance the savory ham.
Don’t skip the garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in this dish, so use the real deal. It adds depth and richness to the broth, helping tie everything together.

For more tips and variations, check out our Pappadeaux Crawfish Etouffee Recipe or learn how to make an Air Fryer Crunchy Bream Potatoes to serve alongside. Both are perfect for any meal and will complement this ham, green beans, and potatoes dish beautifully!

Why This Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in Crock Pot Recipe is Perfect for Every Meal

One of the best things about ham, green beans, and potatoes in the Crock Pot is that it’s endlessly adaptable. It works in so many different contexts, from simple family dinners to festive gatherings, and here’s why:

Perfect for Busy Weekdays

Life can get hectic, and sometimes you just need a meal that’s easy to prepare yet still comforting and hearty. That’s where this recipe shines. All you have to do is chop a few ingredients, toss them into the Crockpot, and let it do the hard work for you. With minimal prep, it’s the kind of recipe you can set and forget, and by the time you’re back, dinner is served.

Great for Family Dinners

If you’re feeding a family or a group of friends, this recipe is a winner. It scales easily, so you can double or triple the ingredients depending on how many people you’re serving. Plus, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, from kids to adults. The smoky ham, tender potatoes, and fresh green beans are a combo that’s hard to resist. Pair it with Tippins cornbread or a refreshing Captain D's slaw for a complete, satisfying meal.

Comfort Food for Cold Weather

There’s nothing like a warm, filling meal on a chilly day, and this dish fits that bill perfectly. The slow-cooked ham and potatoes create a rich, flavorful broth that’s perfect for cozying up with after a long day. This recipe is especially great for the fall and winter months when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Your Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Even Better

If you’re like me, you might like to experiment with recipes and add your own twist. Here are some ideas for taking this ham, green beans, and potatoes in Crock Pot recipe to the next level:

Add a Dash of Heat

If you enjoy a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or even a couple of diced jalapeños. The heat balances out the richness of the ham and adds another layer of flavor. This makes the dish a little more dynamic, especially if you're serving it alongside something mild like Lombatello steak or Big Benny Bao Bun.

Use Fresh Herbs

While dried thyme is a great choice, fresh herbs will bring even more fragrance and flavor to the table. Try adding fresh rosemary or parsley towards the end of cooking for an aromatic touch. If you want to make it feel more seasonal, fresh sage would pair beautifully with the ham and potatoes.

Top It Off with Cheese

Once the dish is cooked, why not sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top? Something melty like sharp cheddar or a creamy mozzarella could add a delicious finish. It’s an easy way to elevate the dish and add another layer of richness.

Mix in Other Veggies

Feel free to throw in extra vegetables based on what you have available. Carrots, corn, or even diced celery can be added to the pot at the beginning of the cooking time, and they’ll take on all the wonderful flavors. You could also add a handful of spinach or kale at the end of the cooking time for some extra green.

Pairing Suggestions for Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

While this dish is a meal all on its own, if you’re looking to make it a more substantial spread, there are plenty of sides that pair perfectly with it. Here are a few ideas:

Cornbread: A warm slice of Tippins cornbread is the perfect side to mop up the flavorful broth. The light sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory ham and potatoes beautifully.
Salad: A simple side salad, perhaps with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty main dish.
Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something crispy, garlic bread or even Cunetto garlic cheese bread would be a great addition to this meal.

If you’re making this for a special occasion, like a holiday gathering or Sunday dinner, consider pairing it with other dishes that share similar flavors. A Pappadeaux Crawfish Etouffee Recipe or Mei and Kyong Egg Fried Rice could be great additions to a diverse spread of comforting dishes that everyone will love.

Storing and Reheating Your Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes

This dish is not only delicious when fresh but also makes for excellent leftovers. The flavors tend to deepen after sitting in the fridge, making it even more flavorful the next day.

Storage:

Once cooled, store your leftover ham, green beans, and potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s a great meal prep option because it reheats beautifully.

Reheating:

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the mixture if needed. The potatoes may break down slightly, but this will only add to the creamy texture of the dish.

For a creative take on leftovers, try turning the ham and potatoes into a filling for crookie or even serve them alongside a spiedie sandwich for a different kind of meal the next day.

Why This Recipe for Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in the Crock Pot is a Keeper

There’s something incredibly comforting about slow-cooked meals like this one. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor, low in effort, and high on satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or making it for a family gathering, this ham, green beans, and potatoes recipe in the Crock Pot is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, a little patience, and a slow cooker can create something truly special.