This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Crock pot cooking ensures tender potatoes and succulent ham, all infused with the delightful freshness of green beans. This simple recipe requires minimal prep time and allows for maximum flavor development. Let's dive into the details!
What Ingredients Do I Need for Crock Pot Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans?
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You'll need:
- 1 lb bone-in ham steak: Choose a good quality ham steak for the best results. A bone-in ham adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
- 1 lb baby potatoes: These cook quickly and evenly in the crock pot. No need to peel them!
- 1 lb fresh green beans: Trim the ends before adding them to the crock pot.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and helps create a delicious sauce.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Thyme complements the ham and other vegetables exceptionally well.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously!
How Do I Prepare Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans in a Crock Pot?
Follow these easy steps:
- Place the ham steak in the bottom of your crock pot.
- Arrange the baby potatoes and green beans around the ham.
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and dried thyme.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the ham is heated through.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans in a Crock Pot?
The cooking time depends on your crock pot's settings and the size of your ingredients. As a general guideline:
- Low setting: 6-8 hours
- High setting: 3-4 hours
Always ensure the potatoes are fork-tender and the ham is heated through before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to My Crock Pot Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider adding:
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots work well.
- Onions: A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic enhance the savory notes.
- Other herbs: Rosemary or parsley would also complement the dish nicely.
What Should I Serve with Crock Pot Ham, Potatoes, and Green Beans?
This hearty meal stands well on its own, but you can enhance it with:
- Cornbread: A classic pairing for a comforting meal.
- Simple green salad: Adds freshness and a contrast in texture.
- Dinner rolls: Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this recipe is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the dish just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
What if My Ham is Too Salty?
If your ham is particularly salty, reduce the amount of salt you add to the recipe or rinse the ham briefly under cold water before cooking. You could also add a bit more chicken broth to dilute the saltiness.
This easy crock-pot recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
