Description
This comforting one-pot meal combines savory ham, tender green beans, and buttery potatoes simmered together until perfectly seasoned. A Southern-style classic, it’s hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare. The ham adds a smoky richness, the green beans bring freshness, and the potatoes soak up all the delicious juices—making every bite irresistible. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you want a wholesome, filling meal without much fuss.
Ingredients For Tender Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes in Every Bite!
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1 ½ lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
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2 lbs baby potatoes (red or gold), halved
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2 cups cooked ham, cubed (or ham hock for extra flavor)
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1 medium onion, diced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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4 cups chicken broth (or enough to cover)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil/butter over medium heat.
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Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.
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Add cubed ham and cook until lightly browned.
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Add green beans and potatoes, stirring to combine.
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Pour in chicken broth until everything is just covered. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40–50 minutes, until potatoes and beans are tender.
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
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Using a ham hock instead of cubed ham makes the broth extra flavorful. Remove the hock before serving and shred the meat back into the pot.
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You can swap baby potatoes with russet or Yukon gold—just cut into chunks.
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If you like a creamier texture, mash some of the potatoes right in the pot.
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This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Tips
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For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
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A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a mild kick.
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Serve with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the broth.
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If using leftover holiday ham, this is a great way to repurpose it.
Servings
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Makes 6 servings (hearty main dish portion).
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 20g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sodium: 780mg
Benefits
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Protein-rich from the ham to keep you full longer.
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High in fiber from green beans and potatoes, supporting digestion.
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Comfort food made healthy with wholesome, simple ingredients.
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Balanced meal with carbs, protein, and veggies in one pot.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, but potatoes may change texture slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Replace ham with smoked tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Q: How do I thicken the broth?
A: Mash a few potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).