Easy Slow Cooker Canned Green Beans : Southern Crockpot Favorite

There’s something undeniably comforting about a pot of tender, slow-cooked green beans that have been simmering for hours with smoky ham, garlic, and savory seasonings. This Slow Cooker Canned Green Beans recipe is as Southern as it gets—rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor that takes canned green beans from pantry staple to irresistible side dish.

Made with just a few affordable ingredients, this dish is perfect for Sunday suppers, holiday feasts, or potluck gatherings. Whether you call them Crockpot Green Beans Canned, Southern Green Beans Recipe Crockpot, or simply Grandma’s way of cooking, this method guarantees a dish that disappears fast at the table.

For more Southern comfort recipes, try these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs or our crowd-pleasing Scalloped Potatoes to round out a hearty meal.

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Why This Crockpot Green Beans Recipe Works Every Time

Canned green beans are often overlooked, but this recipe proves they can be just as flavorful as fresh when prepared the right way. Here’s why this dish is a winner:

• Low effort, big payoff: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it simmer.
• Budget-friendly: Canned beans are inexpensive, but taste gourmet when seasoned properly.
• Versatile: Works as a weeknight side or a holiday centerpiece dish.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the smoky, savory flavor.
• Perfect texture: Cooking them low and slow makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender.

If you love slow cooker staples, you’ll also want to check out our Mississippi Pot Roast or Slow Cooker Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans for easy all-in-one meals.

Perfect For: Southern Family Dinners, Holidays & Potlucks

This recipe shines in so many different settings:

• Holiday side dish: Works beautifully with turkey, ham, or roast beef.
• Potluck favorite: Travels well in the crockpot and stays warm.
• Weeknight dinners: Easy enough for a busy night with minimal prep.
• Southern spreads: Complements cornbread, BBQ, or fried chicken.

Pair these beans with Ground Beef Wellington or Baked Chicken Legs for a comforting, filling dinner.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Canned Green Beans With Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful beans:

• 4 cans cut green beans, drained
• 1 cup diced ham (or 4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste

Optional add-ins: a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

For another Southern-style vegetable dish, try our Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans or Vegetable Casserole.

Kitchen Tools Needed for Crockpot Green Beans

This recipe is as simple as it gets. All you need are:

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Airtight containers for leftovers

If you enjoy make-ahead recipes, also check out our Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls to simplify busy mornings.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Green Beans in the Crockpot

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Drain your canned green beans and chop the ham, onion, and garlic.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot
Add green beans, ham, onion, garlic, chicken broth, butter, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Stir and Cover
Mix gently to combine. Cover with the lid.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the beans are tender and infused with flavor.

Step 5: Taste and Serve
Check seasoning before serving and add salt if needed (the ham and broth may already provide plenty of saltiness).

Serve warm directly from the crockpot, or transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.

For another effortless recipe, you might also enjoy our Crockpot Fajitas or Crack Breakfast Casserole.

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Pro Tips for the Best Southern Green Beans Recipe

• Drain canned beans well to avoid excess liquid.
• Use smoked ham hocks for an extra-deep smoky flavor.
• Fresh garlic and onion elevate the dish far above plain canned beans.
• Don’t over-salt: Taste first since broth and ham already add sodium.
• Add butter at the end if you want a glossy, richer finish.

For another smoky side dish, try Stuffed Acorn Squash filled with savory ingredients.

Serving Ideas & What Goes Well With Crockpot Green Beans

These beans pair beautifully with:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry
• Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast
• Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Round out your menu with a sweet finish like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Apple Crisp With Oatmeal.

Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Instructions

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm in the crockpot on LOW for 30 minutes.

Freeze: Best eaten fresh, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with added broth to restore texture.

Make-Ahead: Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day.

Variations & Flavor Boosts for Canned Green Beans

Southern Style: Add diced potatoes and cook until tender.

• Cowboy Style: Mix in bacon, jalapeños, and extra garlic.
• Gourmet Touch: Finish with toasted almonds or Parmesan.
• Vegetarian: Omit ham, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika.
• Holiday Flair: Stir in caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms.

If you enjoy flavor twists, try Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for dessert—they’re unique and festive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Crockpot Canned Green Beans

• Forgetting to drain beans: Too much liquid dilutes flavor.
• Over-salting early: Always taste at the end before adjusting.
• Using low-quality ham: A good smoky ham adds the backbone of flavor.
• Overcooking: Beans should be tender but not mushy.
• Skipping the aromatics: Onion and garlic are key flavor builders.

For more foolproof cooking, check out our Zero Point Chicken Salad—simple, healthy, and satisfying.

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FAQs About Crockpot Green Beans Canned Recipes

Can I use fresh or frozen beans instead of canned?
Yes! Adjust cooking time slightly—fresh beans may take longer.

Do I have to add ham?
No, but ham or bacon adds authentic Southern flavor.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger crockpot (8-quart).

Is this dish spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

Can I keep it warm for parties?
Yes! Set your crockpot to “warm” and it’ll hold for several hours.

Final Thoughts + Share & Subscribe Call-To-Action

These Slow Cooker Canned Green Beans are proof that a humble pantry ingredient can be transformed into something truly special with the right Southern touch. Tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with family and friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more Southern comfort recipes, crockpot classics, and easy side dishes.

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