Crockpot Ham, Green Bean & Potatoes

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Quick Description: A cozy one-pot wonder made with tender ham, fresh green beans, and creamy potatoes — perfect for an easy, hearty family dinner.

Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours (Low) | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 min
Dietary Badges: Gluten-Free • W-W Friendly • One-Pot Meal
W-W Points Estimate: 7–9 (depending on ham leanness & potato portion)

✅ Ingredients Checklist

  • Diced ham (about 2 lbs)

  • Fresh green beans, trimmed (2 lbs)

  • Baking potatoes, diced (4 medium)

  • Small onion, chopped

  • Garlic (optional, 2 cloves minced)

  • Water (3 cups)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

📝 Instructions Summary

  1. Dice ham, onion, and potatoes.

  2. Add to crockpot with green beans.

  3. Pour in 3 cups water. Add salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).

  4. Stir well. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, stirring once or twice.

  5. Serve hot — enjoy the comforting goodness!

💡 Quick Notes:

  • ✔ Use lean ham for a lower fat option.

  • ✔ Great for meal prep — holds well in fridge for up to 4 days.

  • ✔ Can be frozen and reheated!

Brief Introduction

Sometimes, you just need a set-it-and-forget-it meal that does all the work while you wrangle life (or kids, in my case!). This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes dish is one of those rare recipes that’s incredibly simple, yet full of flavor. It takes the classic Southern combo and transforms it into a weekday winner with minimal effort.

Perfect for chilly nights, lazy Sundays, or when you’ve got leftover ham and want to turn it into something magical.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prep the Ingredients

  • Step: Dice 2 lbs of ham, 4 baking potatoes, and 1 small onion into bite-sized chunks.
    Tip: No need to peel the potatoes unless you prefer — skins add extra fiber and rustic flavor.

2. Load the Crockpot

  • Step: Place the ham, potatoes, and onion into your crockpot.

  • Step: Add 2 lbs trimmed green beans on top.

3. Add Liquids & Seasonings

  • Step: Pour in 3 cups of water. Season generously with salt and pepper.

  • Step: Add 2 cloves minced garlic if you love a bit of kick.

4. Cook Low and Slow

  • Step: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, stirring halfway through if you’re around.
    Tip: If you need to speed it up, use HIGH for 3–4 hours, though I prefer the texture from the slow cook.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Step: Stir once more before serving. Spoon into bowls and enjoy with warm bread or a fresh salad.

Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips

  • Ham: I recommend using a lean ham steak or leftover holiday ham. Trim visible fat for a W-W friendly version.

  • Green Beans: Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch (just thaw first).

  • Potatoes: Russets are soft and creamy here; Yukon Golds will hold their shape better.

  • Onion & Garlic: These round out the flavor—skip garlic if serving kids who prefer milder tastes.

Substitutions Table:

Ingredient Substitution
Ham Smoked turkey or lean chicken sausage
Potatoes Sweet potatoes or cauliflower (lower-carb)
Green Beans Broccoli or chopped kale (last 2 hrs only)
Water Chicken or veggie broth for added flavor

Flavor Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Southern Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.

  • Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of milk or Greek yogurt just before serving.

  • Make it a Meal: Pair with a crusty whole grain roll or a side of W-W cornbread.

  • Leftover Magic: Reheat with a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast hash!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Cool fully, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Keeps up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Microwave on 70% power for 2–3 minutes or reheat on stovetop with a splash of broth.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: ~320 | Carbs: 28g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 6g
W-W SmartPoints™ Estimate: 7–9 depending on ham leanness and potato size
Allergens: Naturally gluten-free

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Use the “Soup” or “Stew” function for 25 minutes on high pressure with quick release.

Q: Can I use canned green beans?
A: Not recommended — they’ll turn mushy. If needed, stir them in only during the last hour.

Q: What’s the best way to make this low-carb?
A: Swap potatoes for cauliflower chunks or turnips. You’ll get the hearty feel without the starch.

Q: Is this W-W friendly?
A: Absolutely! Opt for lean ham, measure your potatoes, and you’ll stay within points.

Story Behind the Recipe

This dish reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen — that slow-cooked warmth, the smell of ham simmering with green beans all afternoon. I’ve adapted her stovetop version to the crockpot so I can sneak in prep between work calls and after-school chaos. It’s a true family favorite, and even better the next day!

Call to Action

Have you made this hearty Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes recipe yet? I’d love to see your twist on it! Tag your creations with #KristyCooksW-W and leave a comment or rating below — it helps others discover the recipe and inspires our little cooking community. 💚

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