Some nights call for the kind of dinner that practically cooks itself, and this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker August Evening Classic is exactly that. Smoked ham hocks slowly simmer with a few simple pantry staples until the meat turns tender and the broth becomes rich, savory, and comforting. It is the kind of rustic meal that feels especially right when late-summer evenings start hinting at fall, and it is perfect for busy weekdays when you want something hearty without hovering over the stove.
This dish is especially good served with warm cornbread, buttery mashed potatoes, or a scoop of fluffy white rice to soak up the smoky cooking liquid. If you want to round it out, add a side of braised cabbage, green beans, or simple sliced tomatoes for a down-home plate that feels complete without much extra effort.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker August Evening Classic
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 bone-in smoked ham hocks
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved if large
1 large yellow onion, sliced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Directions
1. Add the sliced onion to the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the smoked ham hocks on top and scatter the baby potatoes around them.
2. Pour the chicken broth over everything, cover, and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the meat is very soft.
3. Carefully transfer the ham hocks to a plate, pull away any bones and excess fat, then return the meat to the slow cooker or serve it whole with the potatoes and broth spooned over the top.
4. Serve hot, with the broth ladled over each portion and a side of cornbread, rice, or mashed potatoes if you like.
Variations & Tips
Add cabbage: For an even more old-fashioned supper, tuck wedges or thick strips of green cabbage into the slow cooker during the last 1 1/2 to 2 hours of cooking so they soften without falling apart.
Make it bean-based: If you want to stretch the meal, add cooked white beans near the end of cooking. They soak up the smoky broth beautifully and make the dish feel even heartier for leftovers.
Watch the salt: Smoked ham hocks can vary a lot in saltiness, so it helps to use low-sodium broth and wait until the end before deciding whether the dish needs any extra seasoning.
Meal prep tip: This is a great recipe to start before a busy workday. If you know your evening will be hectic, prep the onion and potatoes the night before so you can get everything into the slow cooker in just a couple of minutes.