Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans

Description

Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans is a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food made with tender green beans, smoky ham, potatoes, and simple seasonings slowly cooked together until the flavors meld into a rich, hearty meal. Unlike crisp-tender green bean side dishes, this Amish-style recipe cooks the beans low and slow, creating a savory, rustic dish that is both filling and satisfying.

Perfect for busy weekdays, family dinners, or potlucks, this recipe requires minimal preparation and lets the slow cooker do most of the work.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1½ pounds fully cooked ham, diced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Optional Additions

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Trim and wash the green beans. Dice the ham, cube the potatoes, and chop the onion.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients

Place the green beans, potatoes, onion, and ham into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and any optional seasonings over the ingredients.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Add the chicken broth until ingredients are mostly covered.

Step 5: Cook

• Cook on Low for 7–8 hours, or
• Cook on High for 4–5 hours

The beans should be very tender and the potatoes fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in butter if using. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Servings

• Makes: 6–8 servings

Preparation and Cooking Time

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Based on 8 servings; values are approximate.

Health Benefits

1. High in Protein

Ham provides quality protein that helps support muscle maintenance and satiety.

2. Rich in Fiber

Green beans and potatoes contribute dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.

3. Good Source of Vitamins

Green beans contain:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K
• Folate
• Antioxidants

4. Energy-Supporting Carbohydrates

Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and potassium for sustained energy.

5. One-Pot Balanced Meal

Combines protein, vegetables, and starch in a single dish.

Recipe Notes

• Traditional Amish versions often cook the green beans until very soft rather than crisp.
• Ham hocks or smoked ham shanks can be substituted for diced ham for deeper flavor.
• Yukon Gold potatoes work well and hold their shape better than russets.
• Low-sodium broth can help control saltiness.

Expert Tips

For the Best Flavor

• Use leftover holiday ham for extra smoky flavor.
• Brown onions briefly before adding for a richer taste.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten flavors.

For Better Texture

• Cut potatoes into uniform pieces.
• Avoid overfilling the slow cooker.
• Add delicate herbs near the end of cooking.

Make It Heartier

• Add sliced smoked sausage.
• Stir in cooked bacon before serving.
• Serve with homemade bread or biscuits.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use canned green beans?

Yes. Use about 4 cans (14–15 ounces each), drained. Reduce cooking time to avoid overly soft beans.

Q2: Can I make this without potatoes?

Absolutely. Increase the green beans or add carrots for another vegetable option.

Q3: What type of ham works best?

Leftover baked ham, smoked ham, ham steak, or ham hocks all work well.

Q4: Can I cook it overnight?

Yes. Cooking on Low for 7–8 hours is ideal for overnight preparation.

Q5: Why are Amish green beans cooked so long?

Traditional Amish cooking often emphasizes slow-cooked vegetables that absorb meat flavors and become exceptionally tender.

Q6: Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. The recipe is naturally gluten-free if the broth and ham used are certified gluten-free.

Q7: What should I serve with Amish Ham and Green Beans?

Popular accompaniments include:

• Crusty bread
• Cornbread
• Dinner rolls
• Applesauce
• Coleslaw

Q8: Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes. Frozen green beans can be used directly from the freezer without thawing.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete Amish-inspired meal, serve Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans with:

• Fresh baked bread
• Buttered noodles
• Applesauce
• Pickled beets
• A simple garden salad