This recipe delivers a delicious and effortless ham and green beans dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the beans with the savory ham flavor for a truly comforting experience. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to serving suggestions, answering common questions along the way.
What kind of ham should I use for crock pot ham and green beans?
You have several options when choosing ham for this recipe. A bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires cooking), will add the most flavor due to the bone. However, a fully cooked, boneless ham steak or leftover ham works perfectly well too – just adjust cooking time accordingly. For a truly effortless meal, opt for a pre-cooked ham.
How long should I cook ham and green beans in a crock pot?
Cooking time depends on the type of ham and your crock pot. If using a bone-in ham, plan on cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For a boneless ham steak or leftover ham, 2-3 hours on low or 1-1.5 hours on high is usually sufficient. Always ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. Overcooked ham can become dry, so keeping an eye on the cooking time and internal temperature is key. Green beans will become tender and flavorful during this process.
Can I add other vegetables to my crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily customizable. Consider adding:
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes will become tender and absorb the ham flavor.
- Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
- Onions: Adds depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall savory profile.
Simply add your chosen vegetables along with the ham and green beans. Larger vegetables like potatoes may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What seasonings should I use for crock pot ham and green beans?
While simple seasonings are often best to let the ham flavor shine, you can enhance the dish with:
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- Garlic powder: A subtle yet impactful flavor enhancer.
- Onion powder: Complements the ham flavor beautifully.
- Bay leaf: Adds a subtle earthy note (remove before serving).
Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.
How do I make crock pot ham and green beans extra flavorful?
For maximum flavor, consider these tips:
- Use bone-in ham: The bone adds depth of flavor.
- Add a splash of liquid: A small amount of chicken broth or water helps keep the beans moist.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked ham can be dry.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a wonderful aroma and taste.
Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans Recipe (Basic Version)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fully cooked ham, cut into chunks (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chicken broth (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Place the ham and green beans in your slow cooker.
- Add chicken broth (if using) and seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours (bone-in ham) or 2-3 hours (boneless ham) or until the ham is heated through and the green beans are tender.
- Serve and enjoy!
This simple recipe provides a delicious and convenient meal. Feel free to adjust seasonings and add other vegetables to create your own perfect version of crock pot ham and green beans. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it's safely cooked. Enjoy!
