Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this potatoes and green beans dish will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Hearty and savory. Rich, smoky, and satisfying.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves potatoes and green beans.
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Budget-friendly. Potatoes, beans, and smoked pork are inexpensive.
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Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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2 pounds small yellow potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
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1 pound fresh green beans or snap beans, trimmed and left whole or halved
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12 ounces smoked pork (such as smoked ham hocks, smoked pork shoulder, or thick-cut smoked bacon), cut into bite-size pieces
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3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Ingredient Notes
Yellow potatoes: Use small yellow potatoes. They hold their shape well during cooking. Cut them into 1 1/2-inch chunks.
Green beans: Use fresh green beans. Trim the ends and leave them whole or halve them.
Smoked pork: Use smoked ham hocks, smoked pork shoulder, or thick-cut bacon. The smoked meat adds rich, savory flavor.
Chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Scrub the potatoes and cut them into 1 1/2-inch chunks. Trim the green beans and cut them in half if desired. Cut the smoked pork into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Add the potatoes, green beans, and smoked pork to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The dish is ready when the potatoes are tender and the green beans are soft.
Step 4: Serve
Stir gently before serving. Spoon into bowls and serve warm.
How to Serve Potatoes and Green Beans
This hearty side dish is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it a complete meal.
With Roast Chicken: A classic pairing.
With Pork Chops: Complements the smoky pork flavor.
With Steak: Perfect alongside a juicy steak.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the broth.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon instead of smoked pork.
Make It with Ham: Use diced ham.
Make It with Sausage: Use smoked sausage.
Make It with Fresh Herbs: Add thyme or rosemary.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Red Potatoes: Use red potatoes instead of yellow.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Simmer on the stove for 45 to 60 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cut the potatoes into uniform chunks. This ensures even cooking.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Use low-sodium broth. The smoked meat adds salt.
Stir gently before serving. This combines the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different potato?
Yes. Red or russet potatoes can be used.
Can I use a different bean?
Yes. Wax beans or snap beans can be used.
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Smoked sausage or ham can be used.
Can I use a different broth?
Yes. Vegetable broth can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why are my potatoes not tender?
They did not cook long enough. Cook longer.
Why is my broth too salty?
The smoked meat added salt. Use low-sodium broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add carrots or celery.
The Amish Kitchen Wisdom
Amish cooking is about feeding a family well with what is available. It is about dishes that are simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
This potatoes and green beans dish embodies that wisdom. Potatoes are affordable. Green beans are fresh. Smoked pork adds flavor. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Keep potatoes in your pantry. Keep green beans in your fridge. Keep smoked pork in your freezer. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
Yield: 6 servings