This recipe for Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans delivers a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooker allows the ham and beans to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy ham and perfectly cooked green beans infused with savory ham flavor. Let's dive in!
What kind of ham is best for crock pot ham and green beans?
The best ham for this recipe is a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires cooking). A bone-in ham adds incredible flavor to the cooking liquid, creating a richer, more savory broth that infuses the green beans. However, if you only have a boneless ham, that will work too! Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly less intense. Avoid using pre-sliced ham, as it will likely become dry and tough in the slow cooker.
How long do you cook ham and green beans in a slow cooker?
Cooking time depends on the size of your ham and your slow cooker's setting. For a 3-4 pound bone-in ham, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours is usually sufficient. If using a larger ham, you may need to increase the cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The green beans will cook alongside the ham, becoming tender and flavorful. Overcooking can result in mushy beans, so keep an eye on them.
Can I add other vegetables to crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider adding other vegetables like:
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes will cook beautifully alongside the ham and green beans, adding a hearty element to the dish.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots add sweetness and vibrant color.
- Onions: A chopped onion adds depth of flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced or whole, will enhance the savory notes.
What seasonings should I use for crock pot ham and green beans?
Simple seasonings go a long way with this recipe. Basic salt, pepper, and a touch of brown sugar are often all you need to balance the sweetness and saltiness of the ham. However, you can also experiment with other seasonings, such as:
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes, similar to adding a chopped onion.
- Dried thyme or rosemary: Adds an herbaceous touch that complements the ham and green beans.
How do I make crock pot ham and green beans?
Here's a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound bone-in ham (city or country ham)
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker.
- Add the green beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the ham and green beans together.
This simple recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to adjust seasonings and add vegetables to create your perfect Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans dish! Enjoy!
