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Crockpot Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes (Hearty Southern Comfort)

ByFoodarshia

Okay, picture this: you toss a few simple ingredients into your crockpot, walk away, and come back to a house that smells like grandma just dropped by with Sunday dinner.

That’s this recipe. It’s warm, cozy, and ridiculously easy—like, “did I really just make that?” easy. If comfort food had a personality, this dish would be the sweet Southern aunt who insists you take seconds (and a to-go plate). 🍽️

Why This Recipe is Awesome

You know those recipes that look fancy but secretly require zero effort? Yep, this is one of them. All you do is throw ham, green beans, and potatoes in a slow cooker and let time do the magic. No searing, sautéing, or emotional commitment required.

It’s hearty, salty, tender, and tastes like home—especially if your home comes with a rocking chair and sweet tea.

Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern Comfort
Difficulty: Easy (like seriously easy)
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6 hours (hands-free!)
Calories: Around 300 per serving
Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 lbs smoked ham – diced or chunked; leftovers from a holiday ham totally work.
  • 1 lb fresh green beans – snapped or trimmed; channel your inner grandma.
  • 6 medium potatoes – peeled and quartered; russet or red, your call.
  • 1 small onion – chopped; adds that subtle sweetness.
  • 4 cups chicken broth – the secret to juicy, tender everything.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – because garlic makes everything better.
  • 1 tsp black pepper – freshly cracked, if you’re feeling fancy.
  • Salt to taste – go light at first; ham is salty enough to make your taste buds dance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the goods. Chop your ham, peel your potatoes, and snap those green beans. You’ll feel like a culinary superstar already.
  2. Layer it up. Toss the potatoes at the bottom (they cook slower), then the green beans, then the ham right on top.
  3. Add the flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in your seasonings. Don’t overthink it—this isn’t chemistry class.
  4. Set it and forget it. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Basically, go live your life.
  5. Serve & savor. Give everything a gentle stir, check seasoning, and dig in. Pair with cornbread if you’re aiming for Southern royalty status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the broth. Don’t do it. Without liquid, you’re making sadness stew.
  • Over-salting. Ham’s already salty enough. Taste before adding more.
  • Forgetting to layer. Potatoes go first—unless you like them half raw. (No judgment, but still.)
  • Lifting the lid 20 times. Tempting, I know. But each peek adds extra cook time. Step away from the crockpot.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • No ham? Try smoked turkey, sausage, or even bacon for a twist.
  • No fresh green beans? Canned or frozen work fine—just adjust cooking time.
  • Low-sodium diet? Use low-sodium broth and rinse your ham first.
  • Want it spicy? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Boom—Southern heat.
  • Vegan-ish version? Skip the ham and use smoked paprika + veggie broth. Different vibe, still cozy.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use canned green beans?
Sure, but add them halfway through. Otherwise, they’ll turn into green mush. And no one’s signing up for mush.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Nah. If you like rustic vibes (and less effort), leave the skins on. Just scrub well.

Can I make this overnight?
Yes! Set it on low before bed, and wake up to the smell of pure Southern magic.

What if I don’t have a crockpot?
Use a big pot on low heat on your stovetop. It’s not as lazy-friendly, but it works.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully. Just don’t freeze your hopes—it won’t taste as good cold.

Can I make it creamier?
Go wild—stir in a little heavy cream or cream of mushroom soup at the end. It’s comfort food, not a diet plan.

What sides go best with it?
Cornbread, biscuits, or even a fresh garden salad if you’re pretending to be healthy.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that makes you nostalgic for family dinners, even if your family just ordered takeout. 😅

So go ahead—grab your crockpot, toss in a few humble ingredients, and let the magic happen. Minimal effort, maximum flavor, and bonus: your kitchen will smell like you’ve been cooking for hours (when really, you’ve been binge-watching Netflix). Now go impress someone—or yourself. You’ve earned it!

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