When the weather starts to turn a bit chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty, slow-cooked meal that fills the house with irresistible aromas. Enter the ultimate crockpot green beans and potatoes – a dish that’s equal parts delicious and effortless.
Growing up, this recipe was a staple in my family, always bringing us together around the table for a cozy, satisfying meal. The tender green beans, buttery potatoes, and savory seasonings create a flavor profile that’s simply out of this world. And the best part? It’s all made with the convenience of a crockpot, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a symphony of comfort food perfection.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests, warm up on a chilly day, or simply enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal, this crockpot green beans and potatoes recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
So, let’s dive in and explore what makes this dish so unforgettable.
😋 What Makes This Dish Unforgettable ?
What sets this crockpot green beans and potatoes recipe apart is the depth of flavor and the incredibly tender, almost creamy texture of the vegetables. The combination of the earthy, slightly sweet green beans, the buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, and the savory, aromatic seasonings creates a truly mouthwatering experience.
But the real magic lies in the slow-cooking process. By allowing the ingredients to simmer together for hours in the crockpot, the flavors have ample time to develop and infuse every bite. The result is a dish that’s not only comforting and satisfying but also remarkably easy to prepare. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it – and before you know it, you’ll have a hearty and delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
The key ingredients in this recipe are the fresh green beans and the Yukon Gold potatoes. The green beans provide a delightful crunch and earthy sweetness, while the Yukon Golds become deliciously tender and creamy as they cook. These two vegetables are the stars of the show, and the other ingredients simply enhance their natural flavors.
Another important component is the blend of dried herbs – thyme and oregano. These fragrant spices lend a warm, savory note that perfectly complements the vegetables. And the touch of butter adds a rich, indulgent quality that brings everything together in a truly satisfying way.
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Trim the ends from the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the assembly process a breeze.
- Layer the Crockpot: Start by adding the green beans to the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, layer the potatoes, onion, and garlic on top. This layering technique helps ensure even cooking and distribution of the flavors.
- Add the Liquids and Seasonings: Pour the broth over the vegetables, making sure to cover them completely. Then, add the butter, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow the green beans and potatoes to simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
- Final Seasoning: Once the cooking time is up, give the dish a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The long cooking process may have intensified the flavors, so a little extra salt or pepper may be all it needs to be perfectly seasoned.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the delicious crockpot green beans and potatoes into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cook time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.
• Protein: 6 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Carbohydrates: 53 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 6 g
🌱 Turn This Base Recipe Into Many Different Meals
• To Make it Vegan: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, like olive oil or coconut oil, and use a vegetable-based broth instead of chicken. The flavors will still be delicious and comforting.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try adding a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other seasonings. This will give the dish a nice, subtle kick of spice.
💫 Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
• Garnish Suggestions: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and a bright, fresh flavor. You can also top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy element.
• Beverage Pairing: This comforting dish pairs beautifully with a bold red wine, a crisp white wine, or a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.
⚠️ How to Sidestep Common Cooking Pitfalls ?
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Bringing the ingredients to room temperature before adding them to the crockpot will help ensure even cooking. Cold vegetables straight from the fridge may take longer to heat through, resulting in an inconsistent texture.
• Mistake 3 – Not Adjusting Seasoning: The long cooking time can sometimes intensify the flavors, so be sure to do a final taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or herbs can make all the difference in balancing the overall dish.
💾 Make-Ahead, Storing, and Reheating Tips
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, transfer the green beans and potatoes to a baking dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.
❓ FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen green beans in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit softer, as frozen vegetables tend to break down more during the cooking process. If using frozen beans, you may want to reduce the cooking time by an hour or so to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To really amp up the flavor, try adding a few strips of crispy bacon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the finished dish. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, or try using a mixture of potatoes (e.g., Yukon Golds and sweet potatoes) for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of in the crockpot?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can easily adapt this recipe to be made on the stovetop. Simply sauté the onions and garlic in a large pot or Dutch oven, then add the green beans, potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 45-60 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
How do I know when the green beans and potatoes are fully cooked?
The best way to tell is to use a fork to gently pierce the potatoes. They should be fork-tender, with no resistance. The green beans should also be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as the vegetables can become mushy if left in the crockpot for too long.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to the mix. Consider adding diced carrots, celery, or even halved Brussels sprouts for a heartier, more varied dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may require a bit more or less time in the crockpot.
🍴 Before You Head Back to the Kitchen
This crockpot green beans and potatoes recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the magic of slow cooking. The end result is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready to savor every bite of this delightful, homemade creation. Bon appétit!
P.S. Don’t forget to top it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a beautiful and fragrant finishing touch. Enjoy!
The Ultimate Hearty Crockpot Green Beans and Potatoes
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Trim the ends from the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the assembly process a breeze.
- Start by adding the green beans to the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, layer the potatoes, onion, and garlic on top. This layering technique helps ensure even cooking and distribution of the flavors.
- Pour the broth over the vegetables, making sure to cover them completely. Then, add the butter, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow the green beans and potatoes to simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
- Once the cooking time is up, give the dish a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The long cooking process may have intensified the flavors, so a little extra salt or pepper may be all it needs to be perfectly seasoned.
- Ladle the delicious crockpot green beans and potatoes into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.
