This recipe for crock pot ham and green beans is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, this dish requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in tender ham and perfectly cooked green beans. The savory ham flavor infuses the beans, creating a delicious and satisfying dish the whole family will love.
What kind of ham is best for crock pot ham and green beans?
The best type of ham for this recipe is a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires pre-cooking). City ham is the easiest option as it's already fully cooked, so you just need to warm it through in the slow cooker. Country ham requires some pre-cooking or soaking to ensure it's tender. A bone-in ham adds extra flavor and moisture to the dish. You can also use leftover ham, which is a great way to reduce food waste and create a quick meal.
How long do I cook ham and green beans in a crock pot?
Cooking time depends on the type of ham and your slow cooker. For a fully cooked bone-in city ham, 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high is usually sufficient to warm it through and allow the flavors to meld. If using a country ham (ensure it's pre-cooked or soaked!), you may need longer cooking times, potentially up to 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe 145°F (63°C). The green beans will cook alongside the ham, becoming tender and flavorful. You can add them earlier for extra softness or later if you prefer a bit more texture.
Can I add other vegetables to my crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider adding other vegetables such as:
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes will cook beautifully alongside the ham and green beans.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots add sweetness and color.
- Onions: A chopped onion adds a savory depth to the dish.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced or whole, add a pungent aroma.
Experiment with different vegetable combinations to customize the dish to your preferences.
What seasonings should I use for crock pot ham and green beans?
Simple seasonings are best to allow the natural flavors of the ham and green beans to shine. Consider using:
- Salt and pepper: These are essential for seasoning any dish.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
- Onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds depth.
- Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
- Brown sugar: A touch of brown sugar can balance the saltiness of the ham and add a touch of sweetness.
How do I make crock pot ham and green beans without ham bone?
If you're using a boneless ham, the cooking time will be shorter and you may want to adjust the liquid added to prevent the dish from drying out. Boneless ham tends to dry out more easily than bone-in ham. You could add a cup or two of chicken broth to help keep it moist. Always monitor the liquid level and add more if needed.
Is it okay to use frozen green beans in a crock pot?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans in this recipe. Just add them to the slow cooker along with the ham and liquid. You may not need to add extra liquid as frozen green beans contain some water. The cooking time will likely be slightly longer to ensure the frozen beans thaw and cook thoroughly.
This versatile crock pot ham and green bean recipe is a perfect example of simple cooking with big flavor. Enjoy!
