Ham, Potato, and Green Bean One-Pot Meal

Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove

There are smells that feel like home: the salt-kissed warmth of ham sizzling, potatoes browning at the edges, and green beans whispering in butter and garlic. That first stirring of the pan is always a little like stepping back into a Sunday where everyone lingers at the table a little longer. This Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove recipe is my go-to for that simple dinner magic — an easy meal that tastes like tradition and feels like a hug. If you love one-pan comfort, you might also enjoy this Sausage and Sweet Potatoes swap I make when I want something richer and a little sweet.

Why Make This Recipe — Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove

• Cozy and comforting recipe: the trio of ham, potatoes, and green beans is classic, warm, and deeply satisfying.
• Quick prep, big payoff: mostly chopping and layering; perfect when you want a simple dinner but crave home-cooked flavor.
• Family favorite: both kids and adults tend to love it — great for weeknights or a laid-back holiday meal.
• Versatile ingredients: use leftover ham, swap fresh for frozen green beans, or make it vegetarian with smoked tofu for a twist.
• Crowd-pleaser: it scales well, which makes it a go-to for potlucks or when friends drop by unannounced.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter — for browning flavor; use half-and-half for a richer taste.
• 1 pound ham, diced (about 2 cups) — leftover baked ham works wonderfully; substitute with smoked turkey for lower sodium.
• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered — Yukon golds hold shape and turn buttery; substitute russets if you like fluffy interiors.
• 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed — use frozen if pressed for time (add a minute to cook time).
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced — red onion adds color, white onion brings sweetness.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced — or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme — rosemary is a great alternative.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water — for gentle steaming; use bone broth for extra depth.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
  (Substitution note: use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping if you add a dollop at the end.)

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes (chopping and trimming).
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes.
• Total time: 35–40 minutes.
  This is a simple dinner that comes together quickly, but the gentle browning and brief steam give it that slow-cooked feel — worth every minute.

How to Make Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove

1. Heat the oil or butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the potatoes cut-side down. Let them sear for 6–8 minutes without moving them — you want golden, almost caramelized edges.
2. Push the potatoes to one side. Add the diced ham and sliced onion to the empty space. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and the ham begins to brown. As the garlic sizzles in the pan, the kitchen will fill with a warm, welcoming scent.
3. Stir everything together, then nestle the green beans on top. Sprinkle thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Pour the chicken broth around the edges (not directly on the potatoes) to create steam.
4. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Steam for 6–8 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Remove the lid and turn up the heat for 1–2 minutes to evaporate any excess liquid and re-crisp the potatoes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning. If you like, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Serve warm, and pass the bread.

Tips and Creative Variations

• Swap the ham for smoked sausage or pancetta for a different smoky depth. Another favorite is to add sliced mushrooms for earthiness.
• For a festive cooking twist, toss in roasted chestnuts or cranberries near the end for holiday sparkle.
• Make it vegetarian: replace ham with smoked tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
• Turn it into a one-pan casserole by finishing under the broiler with grated cheddar for 2–3 minutes for a bubbly top.
• If you want a sweeter note, roast the potatoes first with a drizzle of maple syrup, then combine with ham and beans.
  For inspiration on matching flavors and textures, I often look at other one-pan recipes like Sausage and Sweet Potatoes which uses a lovely honey-garlic glaze.

Serving Ideas for Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove

• Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the pan juices.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• For drinks, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager complements this homemade dish beautifully.
• This meal is perfect for cozy family dinners, a casual holiday side, or a comforting post-work supper shared with friends.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The potatoes absorb flavors, so the dish often tastes even better the next day.
• To reheat: warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the pan juices. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between intervals.
• Freezing: freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note: potatoes can change texture slightly after freezing; they’re best reheated in a skillet to revive some crispness.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a heavy skillet (cast iron works great) to get even browning on the potatoes.
• Don’t crowd the pan when searing — give potatoes space for that golden crust.
• Taste as you go — ham can be salty; adjust added salt accordingly.
• If your green beans are thicker, slice them diagonally to help them cook evenly.
• Save a bit of broth to refresh leftovers while reheating for a fresh, just-made quality.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes — you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove; the potatoes may be softer but taste still wonderful.

Q: What’s the best substitute for ham?
A: Smoked turkey, smoked sausage, or smoked tofu are excellent swaps depending on whether you want lower sodium or a vegetarian option.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Absolutely. Add an extra minute or two to the covered steaming step since frozen beans are already partially cooked.

Q: How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
A: Sear them properly and avoid over-steaming. If they’re small or waxy (like baby potatoes), they hold shape better.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
A: Yes — it scales nicely. Use a large skillet or braiser, or divide across two pans for even cooking.

Conclusion

This Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove recipe is a celebration of simple, soulful cooking — the kind that fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with conversation. It’s a comforting recipe that’s easy to adapt, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet family favorite or a festive cooking moment for guests. If you ever want variations or another take on the ham-green-bean-potato combo, check out this Easy Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes Recipe – Hint of Healthy for a health-minded spin, or this classic Ham Green Beans and Potatoes for another comforting perspective. Try it once, and you’ll have a new weeknight hero that tastes like home.

Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans on the Stove

A cozy and comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender ham, potatoes, and green beans, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for browning flavor; use half-and-half for a richer taste.
• 1 pound ham, diced (about 2 cups) — leftover baked ham works wonderfully; substitute with smoked turkey for lower sodium.
• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered Yukon golds hold shape and turn buttery; substitute russets if you like fluffy interiors.
• 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed use frozen if pressed for time (add a minute to cook time).
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced red onion adds color, white onion brings sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.

Seasoning and Liquids

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme — rosemary is a great alternative.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water for gentle steaming; use bone broth for extra depth.
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional, for added heat.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional, for brightness.
• 1 squeeze of lemon optional, for brightness.

Instructions

 

Cooking

• Heat the oil or butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Add the potatoes cut-side down. Let them sear for 6–8 minutes without moving them.
• Push the potatoes to one side. Add the diced ham and sliced onion to the empty space. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and the ham begins to brown.
• Stir everything together, then nestle the green beans on top. Sprinkle thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
• Pour the chicken broth around the edges to create steam, ensuring not to pour directly on the potatoes.
• Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Steam for 6–8 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
• Remove the lid and turn up the heat for 1–2 minutes to evaporate any excess liquid and re-crisp the potatoes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Serve warm, and pass the bread.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal, Ham and Potatoes, One-Pan Recipe

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest