Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans Recipe (4 Ingredients)

If you’re looking for a hearty, old-fashioned comfort food recipe, this Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans is exactly what you need. Inspired by traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cooking, this simple farmhouse meal combines smoky ham, tender green beans, hearty potatoes, and savory broth into a wholesome one-pot dinner that practically cooks itself.

Made with just four ingredients, this slow cooker ham and green beans recipe is perfect for busy families, cozy Sunday suppers, and anyone craving a taste of classic Amish comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Ham and Green Beans Recipe

• Only 4 simple ingredients
• Easy slow cooker preparation
• Budget-friendly family meal
• Rich, comforting farmhouse flavor
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipe
• Hearty enough for a complete dinner

The slow cooking process allows the smoky ham flavor to infuse the broth, potatoes, and green beans, creating a meal that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 to 2½ pounds smoked ham hocks or ham shanks
• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 pounds yellow potatoes, quartered
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients

Place the smoked ham hocks in the bottom of a large slow cooker.

Add the quartered potatoes over the ham, followed by the green beans.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients until most of the vegetables are covered.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

• LOW: 7–8 hours
• HIGH: 4–5 hours

Cook until the ham is tender, the green beans are soft, and the potatoes easily pierce with a fork.

Step 4: Remove and Shred the Ham

Carefully transfer the ham hocks to a cutting board.

Remove the bones, skin, and excess fat, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Return the Ham

Add the shredded ham back into the slow cooker and stir gently.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the ham, potatoes, green beans, and broth into bowls and serve hot.

What Makes Amish Ham and Green Beans Special?

This classic Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch dish is known for its simplicity and deep flavor. Rather than relying on complicated seasonings, the smoky ham slowly flavors the broth as it cooks, creating a rich, savory meal from a handful of ingredients.

The long cooking time transforms ordinary green beans and potatoes into tender comfort food that’s been a staple in Amish kitchens for generations.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

This hearty meal pairs perfectly with:

• Homemade cornbread
• Crusty artisan bread
• Dinner rolls
• Buttered biscuits
• Simple garden salad
• Sliced tomatoes
• Coleslaw

Many families also enjoy serving it with buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes for an extra-filling meal.

Easy Variations

Use Leftover Ham

Have leftover holiday ham? Substitute diced ham and a ham bone for the ham hocks.

Make It More Stew-Like

Mash some of the cooked potatoes into the broth to create a thicker texture.

Add More Vegetables

Carrots, onions, and celery can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

Try Different Potatoes

Red potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes, or russet potatoes all work well in this recipe.

Tips for the Best Ham and Green Beans

Choose Meaty Ham Hocks

The more meat on the ham hocks, the richer and heartier the final dish will be.

Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker

Use a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker for the best results.

Let the Ham Cook Slowly

Cooking on LOW allows the flavors to develop fully and produces the most tender meat.

Taste Before Seasoning

Ham hocks can vary greatly in saltiness, so always taste the broth before adding extra salt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?

Yes. Frozen green beans can be substituted for fresh green beans without adjusting the cooking time.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Can I Freeze Amish Ham and Green Beans?

Yes. Store cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

What’s the Difference Between Ham Hocks and Ham Shanks?

Ham hocks contain more connective tissue and create a richer broth, while ham shanks typically provide more meat.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Microwave until hot throughout
• Warm gently on the stovetop
• Add a splash of broth if needed

This recipe often tastes even better after a night in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans recipe captures everything people love about traditional farmhouse cooking. With smoky ham, tender potatoes, flavorful green beans, and a rich broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food made with minimal effort.

Whether you’re honoring Pennsylvania Dutch traditions or simply looking for an easy slow cooker dinner, this hearty one-pot meal is sure to become a family favorite.