Green beans and ham – a classic combination that's effortlessly delicious when slow-cooked in a crock pot. This recipe delivers tender-crisp green beans infused with the savory saltiness of ham, creating a perfect side dish for any occasion. It's easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and allows for incredible flavor development thanks to the slow cooking process. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or larger gatherings.
What You'll Need:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed: Fresh or frozen green beans work equally well. If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them.
- 1 pound ham, cubed or sliced: Use leftover ham, a ham steak, or even pre-cooked ham cubes. The type of ham you use will influence the overall flavor profile, so feel free to experiment!
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water: This adds moisture to the pot and prevents the beans from drying out.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil: Adds richness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference.
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: Add the trimmed green beans, cubed ham, chicken broth (or water), butter (or olive oil), garlic powder, and onion powder to your slow cooker.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. You want them to be cooked through but still retain a slight bite.
- Serve: Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Based on common online searches, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about crock pot green beans and ham:
Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! There's no need to thaw frozen green beans before adding them to the slow cooker. They will cook perfectly alongside the ham and other ingredients.
How do I make it spicier?
To add a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred spice level.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to your crock pot green beans and ham. Just be mindful of their cooking times – some vegetables may require longer cooking than others. Add firmer vegetables like carrots and potatoes earlier in the cooking process.
How can I make it thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can thicken the liquid at the end of cooking. You can do this by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and then stirring it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, a tablespoon of flour can achieve the same effect.
What can I serve it with?
This delicious side dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or even alongside your favorite holiday ham. It's a versatile option that complements many different main courses.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the crock pot green beans and ham ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the slow cooker on low before serving.
This crock pot green beans and ham recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
