This recipe honors the Amish tradition of using simple, high-quality ingredients.
For the Main Dish
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked ham hock or ham bone | 1 large (about 1–1½ lbs) | The bone adds incredible depth to the broth |
| Fresh green beans | 2 lbs (about 900 g) | Trimmed and snapped into 2-inch pieces |
| Potatoes | 4–5 medium (about 2 lbs) | Yukon Gold or Russets, peeled and cut into chunks |
| Onion | 1 large, diced | Adds savory sweetness |
| Chicken broth or water | 4–6 cups (960 ml – 1.4 L) | Enough to cover the ingredients |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
For Extra Flavor (Optional)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Adds a subtle, savory depth |
| Bay leaf | 1 | For a gentle herbaceous note |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | Adds a subtle smokiness |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and trim the green beans, snapping them into manageable pieces. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1½-inch chunks. Dice the onion.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the ham hock or ham bone in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the green beans, potatoes, and onion on top. Pour in enough chicken broth or water to just cover the ingredients.
3. Season
Add any optional seasonings, such as garlic, bay leaf, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Cook
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beans are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
5. Remove the Bone
Carefully remove the ham hock or bone from the slow cooker. Shred any meat off the bone and stir it back into the dish. Discard the bone.
6. Serve
Ladle the ham and green beans into bowls, making sure everyone gets plenty of the rich, savory broth. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ham and Green Beans
Use a ham hock or bone. The bone is essential for creating that deep, rich flavor. If you don't have one, you can use a smoked turkey leg or a thick slice of smoked ham.
Don't overcook the green beans. If you prefer them with a little more bite, add them in the last 2–3 hours of cooking.
Add potatoes in the last 3 hours. If you want them to hold their shape perfectly, add them a few hours into cooking instead of at the beginning.
Taste before adding salt. Ham hocks are naturally salty, so wait until the end to adjust the seasoning.
Variations to Try
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Southern-Style | Add a pinch of sugar and a few dashes of hot sauce |
| Vegetable-Packed | Add carrots and celery along with the onion |
| Smoky & Spicy | Add a smoked sausage or andouille for extra depth |
| Herb-Infused | Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs during cooking |
| Creamy Version | Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans have a much better texture. If using frozen, add them during the last 3 hours of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the potatoes may become slightly grainy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving the potatoes out and adding fresh ones when reheating.
What should I serve with this?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up the broth.
A Story from My Kitchen
I first encountered this dish at a small farmhouse in Pennsylvania Dutch country. The family who hosted me had been simmering ham and green beans on their wood-burning stove for generations. The broth was rich, the beans tender, and the potatoes silky.
When I asked for the recipe, the matriarch smiled and said, "Oh, there's no recipe. Just put it all in the pot and let time do the work." That is exactly what I did, and it has become one of my most cherished meals.
A Gentle Reminder
Sometimes, the most nourishing meals are the simplest ones. This Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans is a testament to the beauty of patience and the power of good, honest ingredients.
