ham and green beans in crock pot

3 min read 21-08-2025
ham and green beans in crock pot


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ham and green beans in crock pot

This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort using your trusty crock-pot. The ham's savory richness perfectly complements the tender green beans, creating a dish ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about simplicity and delicious results.

What You'll Need:

  • 1-2 lbs bone-in ham steak or leftover cooked ham: Choose a ham steak with a good amount of fat for extra flavor. Leftover ham works wonderfully, too!
  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed: You can use frozen green beans, but fresh ones offer a superior flavor and texture.
  • 1 cup chicken broth: Low-sodium broth is preferred to control the saltiness.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the ham's saltiness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is best.
  • Optional additions: Consider adding a bay leaf, a sprig of rosemary, or a few cloves for added depth of flavor.

Instructions:

  1. Place ham in crock-pot: Place the ham steak (or chopped leftover ham) in the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Add remaining ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the ham.
  3. Add green beans: Evenly distribute the green beans around the ham.
  4. Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the green beans are tender. Check the internal temperature of the ham; it should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
  5. Serve and enjoy: Serve the ham and green beans directly from the crock-pot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of brown sugar if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

This section addresses common questions surrounding crock-pot ham and green beans.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen green beans. Just add them directly to the crock-pot without thawing. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, potentially adding an extra hour on low or 30 minutes on high.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the broth mixture. A diced jalapeño pepper would also add heat and flavor.

What can I serve with crock-pot ham and green beans?

This dish pairs wonderfully with many sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While you can assemble the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, it's best to cook the ham and green beans in the crock-pot on the day you plan to serve them to maintain optimal flavor and texture. The ham may become dry if cooked too long.

What kind of ham is best for this recipe?

Bone-in ham steaks are ideal because they provide rich flavor and moisture. However, leftover cooked ham works perfectly well, too. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the crock-pot.

How do I know when the ham is done?

The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham. The green beans should also be tender and easily pierced with a fork.

This simple recipe provides a delicious and easy meal perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different seasonings and sides to create your own unique variation! Enjoy!