Amish Ham and Green Beans Recipe | Easy Slow Cooker Comfort Food

Introduction

Amish Ham and Green Beans is a classic comfort food dish that has been passed down through generations in Amish kitchens. This hearty one-pot meal combines smoky ham, tender green beans, and buttery potatoes simmered together in a rich, savory broth. Simple ingredients and slow cooking allow the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, chilly evenings, or whenever you’re craving traditional country cooking. With minimal preparation and plenty of wholesome flavor, this recipe is a true taste of Amish home-style comfort.

Ingredients

• 2 to 2½ pounds smoked ham hocks (or meaty ham shanks)
• 2 pounds fresh green beans, ends trimmed and snapped in half
• 2 pounds yellow potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Optional Seasonings

• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients

Place the smoked ham hocks in the bottom of a large 5- to 7-quart slow cooker. Arrange the quartered potatoes over the ham, then scatter the trimmed green beans on top.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Slowly pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. The liquid should mostly cover the potatoes and green beans. Don’t worry if a few pieces remain above the liquid—they will soften and settle as they cook.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

• LOW: 7 to 8 hours
• HIGH: 4 to 5 hours

The dish is ready when the ham is tender, the green beans are soft, and the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Ham

Carefully remove the ham hocks from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Discard the bones, skin, and any large pieces of fat. Shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Return Ham to the Slow Cooker

Add the shredded ham back into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine with the potatoes, green beans, and broth. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the ham, potatoes, green beans, and flavorful broth into serving bowls. Serve hot with additional black pepper if desired. Pair with crusty bread, biscuits, or cornbread for a complete and comforting meal.

Conclusion

This Amish Ham and Green Beans recipe is the definition of simple, satisfying comfort food. The smoky ham infuses every bite with rich flavor, while the tender potatoes and green beans create a hearty and wholesome meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for the slow cooker, this traditional Amish favorite is ideal for busy days when you want a warm, home-cooked dinner waiting for you. Serve it with your favorite bread and enjoy a timeless dish that brings family and friends together around the table.