Using your slow cooker, you can easily make this delicious and easy side of fresh green beans using only 4 ingredients: ham or bacon, fresh green beans, water, and salt.

To make Fresh Green Beans in your slow cooker or crockpot, just combine all ingredients, cover, and set to cook on High for 6-10 hours or on Low for 10-24 hours until the beans reach your desired tenderness.

This recipe has become a household favorite due to its simplicity and ability to complement any main meal. It’s a simple way to add some home-cooked flavor to your dinner.

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Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh are not available. Ensure they are completely thawed and drained before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps maintain the texture and flavor integrity throughout the cooking process.

Slow Cooker Fresh Green Beans Ingredients

• 1/4 lb of ham or bacon pieces
• 2 lbs of fresh green beans, washed, trimmed, and cut into pieces or Frenched
• 3-4 cups of water
• 1 scant tsp of salt

How To Make Slow Cooker Fresh Green Beans

1. Prepare the bacon or ham: If using bacon, first cut it into square pieces. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium and cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown.
2. Drain and set aside the bacon: Once the bacon is adequately crisped, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. If using ham, skip this step and just prepare to add it directly to the slow cooker.
3. Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Place the crispy bacon or chopped ham, along with the prepared green beans, water, and salt into the slow cooker. Ensure that all ingredients are mixed thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
4. Set the cooking time and temperature: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Choose either to cook on High for 6-10 hours or on Low for 10-24 hours depending on your schedule and how soft you prefer the beans.
5. Finish and serve: After the cooking time is complete, check the green beans for desired doneness and seasoning. Adjust salt if necessary, then serve hot as a delightful side dish to any main course.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon to add a rich flavor and texture to your green beans, ensuring it crisps nicely without becoming too brittle.
• Trim your green beans efficiently: Line up the ends of your green beans on a cutting board, then trim them all at once with a sharp knife to save time and ensure uniform cooking.
• Adjust the salt carefully: Start with less salt than you think you need, as both bacon and ham contain sodium; you can always add more salt after tasting near the end of cooking.
• Check the beans for doneness: To avoid overcooking, start checking the green beans at the minimum cooking time to ensure they reach your preferred level of tenderness.
• Add a touch of acidity: After cooking, stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors of the dish, balancing the richness of the bacon or ham.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the bacon or ham and add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. These ingredients give a similar smoky flavor without using meat, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.

Recipe Variations

• Include new textures: Add sliced almonds or crumbled feta cheese to the finished dish to introduce a crunchy or creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender green beans.
• Spice it up: Introduce red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when adding the water and salt to give your green beans a spicy kick that heats up the dish.
• Mix in other vegetables: Halfway through cooking, add chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker for additional flavor and a colorful presentation.

What To Serve With Fresh Green Beans

Serve your Slow Cooker Fresh Green Beans with hearty mains like grilled chicken, seared steak, or baked salmon. Include creative sides like garlic mashed potatoes, herbed couscous, or a vibrant quinoa salad.

You can also pair it with roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh tomato salad.

How To Store Leftover Fresh Green Beans

In The Fridge:

Store leftover fresh green beans in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure they are cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

In The Freezer:

It’s best not to freeze cooked fresh green beans, as they become mushy and lose their texture upon thawing. Instead, consume them within a few days from the fridge.

How To Reheat Leftover Fresh Green Beans

Reheat your leftover fresh green beans by sautéing them in a pan over medium heat until they are heated through. This method helps retain their texture better than microwaving. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the flavors.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Greek Green Beans
• Slow Cooker Chips ( French Fries )
• Cheesy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potato Bake