Slow Cooker Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans

Slow Cooker Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a satisfying family meal. This recipe combines tender ham hock(s) with Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh green beans, and savory seasonings, all simmered to perfection in a flavorful chicken broth.

The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, each bite of this comforting meal promises warmth and satisfaction.

Slow Cooker Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans

Ingredients

1 large ham hock, or 3 small ham hocks

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks

2 pounds fresh green beans, cut into pieces

1 large onion, chopped

2 teaspoon garlic, freshly minced

1 teaspoon seasoning salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

4 c. chicken broth

2 tablespoon water

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Start by peeling and cutting the Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks.

Next, Break the green beans into bite sized pieces.

Proceed to chop the onion into pieces.

Now place the ham hock(s) in the cooker. Set it on high for 1 hour.

After that reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for another 3 hours.

Once done remove the ham hock(s) from the cooker. Add in the potatoes and chicken broth.

Introduce chopped onion, minced garlic, seasoning salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Cut up the ham into bite pieces. Add them back, to the slow cooker.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking time add in your green beans.

Create a mixture of water and cornstarch then stir it into your cooker.

Let it cook for 30 minutes while occasionally stirring everything together.

Finally, serve up this creation. Enjoy every flavorful bite.

Notes

To make sure that this dish is free of gluten it’s important to select a brand of cornstarch that has been certified as gluten.

Cornstarch does not naturally contain gluten, which makes it a great option, for thickening your Slow Cooker Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans recipe. Remember to read the labels of any packaged ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.

Enjoy your meal without any gluten concerns. Savor the flavors.

Ham Hocks: Using ham hocks adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish as they slowly cook, infusing the broth and vegetables with savory goodness.

Potatoes and Green Beans: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and provide a creamy texture, while fresh green beans add a crisp bite and vibrant color to the dish.

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Flavor Base: The combination of chopped onions and freshly minced garlic forms a flavorful base, complemented by seasoning salt and black pepper, which enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.

Cooking Method: The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together over several hours, resulting in tender potatoes, perfectly cooked green beans, and ham that falls off the bone.

Thickening Agent: Cornstarch mixed with water is added towards the end of cooking to thicken the broth slightly, creating a comforting gravy-like consistency that ties all the ingredients together.

Serving: This dish is hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner. It’s a complete meal with protein, vegetables, and starch, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Variations: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences or add additional herbs and spices like thyme or paprika for extra flavor dimensions.

Leftovers: Leftovers of this dish are delicious and can be easily reheated for another meal. The flavors often deepen and meld further after sitting overnight.

Nutritional Benefits: This dish is nutritious, providing protein from the ham hock(s), vitamins from the vegetables, and a comforting warmth from the broth, making it a wholesome choice.

Presentation: When serving, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a touch of freshness and color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use something else instead of ham hock(s)?

Yes, you can substitute with smoked ham shanks, ham bone, or even diced ham for a quicker cooking time.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, while Yukon Gold potatoes work well due to their creamy texture, you can use Russet potatoes or even red potatoes if preferred.

What can I substitute for fresh green beans?

You can substitute with frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as frozen green beans cook faster.

Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, beef broth can be used as a substitute if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Do I need to peel the Yukon Gold potatoes?

It’s optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.

Can I prepare this recipe without using a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop or in the oven, adjusting cooking times and methods accordingly.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?

Mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it gradually while stirring until the desired thickness is achieved.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags.

It should keep well for up to 3 months.

How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Taste and adjust the seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic according to your preferences before serving.

What are some suggested side dishes to serve with this meal?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, a side salad, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.