This recipe for Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans offers a fantastically easy and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ham and green beans to meld together in a symphony of savory goodness. This dish is incredibly versatile, adaptable to different preferences, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What kind of ham works best in a crock pot?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can use leftover cooked ham, a bone-in ham steak, or even a city ham (though a bone-in ham will add more flavor). Avoid using very lean ham, as it may dry out in the slow cooker. A ham with some fat content will keep the dish moist and tender. If using a bone-in ham, you might need to adjust cooking time slightly, as bone-in ham takes longer to cook through.
How long should I cook ham and green beans in a slow cooker?
Cooking time depends on the type and amount of ham you're using. For leftover cooked ham (cubed or sliced), 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high is usually sufficient. For a bone-in ham steak, you may need to cook it for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked thoroughly. Green beans will tenderize beautifully during this time, absorbing the delicious ham flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Consider adding:
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes will cook beautifully alongside the ham and green beans, adding a hearty element to the dish.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or chopped carrots will add sweetness and color.
- Onions: A chopped onion adds depth of flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced or whole, will enhance the savory notes.
Remember to adjust the cooking time if adding additional vegetables, ensuring everything is cooked through.
What seasonings pair well with crock pot ham and green beans?
While simple salt and pepper are perfectly adequate, you can elevate the flavor profile with a few additional seasonings:
- Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar balances the saltiness of the ham and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Mustard: Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard adds a tangy kick.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without needing to mince fresh cloves.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without needing to chop an onion.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
How do I make crock pot ham and green beans recipe?
Here's a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds cooked ham, cubed or sliced
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the green beans are tender.
- Serve warm.
This simple recipe creates a delicious and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and vegetables to customize it to your liking. Enjoy!
