green beans and ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
green beans and ham recipe
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The Best green beans and ham recipe

I’ve been making this green beans and ham recipe for years, and it’s a staple in my household. My kids love it because it’s a simple and delicious side dish that’s packed with nutrients. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and cook.

The best part is that it’s a great way to get my kids to eat their veggies – they don’t even notice they’re eating green beans! The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the ham. I like to use a thick-cut ham steak that’s been cured with salt and spices.

It adds so much flavor to the dish. When I cook the ham, I make sure to sear it in a hot pan until it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the ham, which pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter taste of the green beans.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a side dish at any meal, from breakfast to dinner. And because it’s so easy to make ahead of time, I often prep it for special occasions like holidays or family gatherings. The best part is that it freezes beautifully, so I can make a big batch and save some for later.

This recipe has become a family tradition, and I’m so glad I can share it with you all.

Southern Green Beans and Ham

Southern Green Beans and Ham

4.8 from 1770 votes

Tender green beans simmered with smoky ham and aromatic onions create a comforting Southern side dish. This slow-cooked recipe develops deep savory flavors as the ham infuses the beans with rich, salty goodness.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
8 oz smoked ham, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, ham adds saltiness)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2Add the diced ham and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy on the edges, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion.
4Sauté until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Add the trimmed green beans and chicken broth, then sprinkle with black pepper.
7Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the beans are tender but still bright green, about 25 to 30 minutes.
8Uncover and increase heat to medium-high.
9Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beans are glazed.
10Taste and add salt only if needed, as the ham provides natural saltiness.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 14g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a deeper flavor, use a ham hock instead of diced ham and simmer for 1 hour. You can substitute frozen green beans, but reduce cooking time by 5 minutes. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Southern Green Beans and Ham Works

This green beans and ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It works for a busy weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or a family gathering where everyone wants something familiar and filling.

I love that it is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that I usually have on hand. For storage, let the dish cool completely and keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat, just warm it in a pot on the stove with a splash of broth or water. You can also serve it over rice or with crusty bread to make it a full meal.

Whether you are cooking for your own family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Green Beans and Ham

Q: What type of ham should I use for this recipe?

In this recipe, I prefer to use a thick-cut ham steak that’s been cured with salt and spices. You can also use leftover ham or diced cooked bacon if you have some on hand.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them according to package instructions before adding them to the skillet.

Q: How do I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?

To prevent the green beans from becoming mushy, make sure to cook them quickly over high heat until they’re tender but still crisp. You can also add a little bit of acidity like lemon juice or vinegar to help preserve their texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

This recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply reheat it in the skillet until warmed through before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover green beans and ham?

To reheat leftover green beans and ham, simply place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave by covering them with a damp paper towel and cooking on high for 30-60 seconds at a time until heated through.

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