Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic side dish with minimal effort. Picture this: It’s a busy weekday, or maybe you’re preparing for a family gathering. You want something hearty and delicious, but you don’t have the time to babysit a pot on the stove. Enter the crock pot! This simple kitchen appliance allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other things. The combination of fresh green beans, savory bacon, and aromatic vegetables creates a delightful dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, the best part is how easy it is to prepare. All you need to do is throw in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the magic happen. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking some mouthwatering Crock Pot Green Beans!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Crock Pot Green Beans bring together the essence of slow cooking with an array of flavors that meld beautifully over time. The gentle heat allows the green beans to absorb the smoky richness of bacon, complemented by aromatic garlic and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker ensures that each ingredient gets the time it needs to develop its flavor, resulting in a cohesive taste that just can’t be rushed. The balance of ingredients also helps create a juicy texture, while the spices give it just enough kick.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Green Beans

This recipe not only makes Green Beans a memorable part of your meal but also allows you to set it and forget it! Imagine walking into your kitchen hours later, greeted by a waft of delicious aroma. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or hosting a festive gathering, these green beans are sure to be a hit. They serve as a wonderful accompaniment to roasts or grilled meats, and the leftovers can easily be repurposed. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory broth offers a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious, making it a must-try.

Ingredients

• 4 strips bacon, diced
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 – 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken stock (or chicken broth, or bone broth)
• 8 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
• ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (use ¼ teaspoon for extra heat)
• 1 cup leftover ham, diced
• 1 ham hock (optional)

Preparing the Flavor Base

Cook the Bacon

Begin by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. This is where the magic starts! The flavorful fat will be essential for the subsequent steps. Once the bacon is beautifully crisp, use a slotted spoon to remove it, letting the excess grease stay in the pan.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them over medium-high heat until the onions are translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This will deepen their flavor. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. The blend of bacon, onion, and garlic is heavenly!

Combining Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Add Green Beans and Ham

In your crock pot, combine the snapped green beans with the diced leftover ham. Mixing in the sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic, along with the crispy bacon and all the flavorful grease from the pan, creates a wonderful base. The green beans should be bright and vibrant, ready to soak in those rich flavors.

Season the Mixture

Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, dried minced onion, dried minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Don’t forget to mix thoroughly to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. This step is important; it ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Add Liquid and Optional Ingredients

Pour the chicken stock over the mixture until about 75% of the green beans are covered. This broth will infuse the dish with moisture and enhance the richness. If desired, toss in any additional mix-ins, such as red potatoes or a ham hock for extra richness. They can add depth to the overall dish!

Cooking Time

Set and Cook

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 – 7 hours or on high for approximately 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows all flavors to infuse seamlessly. This slow cooking really makes a difference! When it’s done, the green beans will be perfectly tender, and you’ll have a delicious side that’s just about ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your flavorful Crock Pot Green Beans alongside your favorite protein. They pair excellently with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even as part of a festive holiday feast. Placing them in a lovely bowl adds an extra touch to the table. People love the vibrant green color, and the flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Tips for Success

• For a vegetarian option, feel free to omit the bacon and ham while using vegetable broth.
• Ensure fresh green beans are trimmed for optimal texture and presentation. Trimming removes any woody ends and enhances the dining experience.
• Adjust the level of spices according to your heat preference. You can always start mild and add more later if you like things spicier!

Variations

• For added flavor, consider incorporating sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes. They can give a fresh twist and add layers of taste.
• Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary to give a unique flair. Just toss them in during the cooking process, and enjoy the aroma!

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Crock Pot Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive the moisture. These beans will taste just as delicious the next day!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can, but fresh green beans will yield a better texture and flavor.

Q2: What if I don’t have a ham hock?
A2: You can substitute it with additional diced ham or simply omit it entirely.

Q3: Can I prepare the ingredients the night before?
A3: Absolutely! Chop and prep your ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

Q4: How can I add more vegetables?
A4: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or corn for variety.

Q5: Is this dish gluten-free?
A5: Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

These Crock Pot Green Beans make for a delightful addition to any meal, enveloping your kitchen in a delicious aroma and gathering your loved ones around the table. With each tender bite, savor the comforting essence of home-cooked goodness that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Enjoy the richness of this dish, perfect for both celebrations and everyday dinners alike!

Print