This slow cooker ham with green beans and potatoes is a beloved dish passed down through generations in many Midwestern families, including mine. It combines the savory flavor of ham with the earthy goodness of green beans and the comforting filling of potatoes. This recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a dish that brings back memories of Sunday dinners after church, where the whole family gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

This dish pairs beautifully with a slice of buttered cornbread or a warm dinner roll to mop up the flavorful broth. For a touch of freshness, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the meal. To complete the meal, you might also consider serving a fruit salad or a light dessert like apple crisp, which would provide a sweet finish that complements the savory main dish.

Servings: 6

1 ½ pounds of ham, diced
1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed
4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of chicken broth
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of thyme
1 teaspoon of rosemary

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant.

2. Place the diced ham in the slow cooker, followed by the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.

3. Add the diced potatoes and green beans to the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly over the ham.

4. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

5. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary over the top.

6. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients and distribute the seasonings.

7. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and green beans are tender.

8. Once cooked, give the dish one final stir to mix all the flavors together before serving hot.

For a touch of sweetness, you might add a cup of diced carrots or sweet potatoes to the slow cooker. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be stirred in with the seasonings. For a creamier version, you can add half a cup of heavy cream in the last hour of cooking. And if you don't have fresh green beans on hand, frozen green beans can be a handy substitute—just add them in the last two hours of cooking.

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