Better Than Grandma’s PA Dutch Ham and String Bean Soup

This is my PA Dutch grandmother’s recipe for ham and string “green” bean soup that brings back fond memories of Sunday family gatherings. It is a childhood favorite recipe and passed down tried and true staple of the Pennsylvania Dutch. After all these years, I think I have perfected this wonderful recipe to share, from my family to yours!

As a busy mom and teacher, finding time to cook can be a challenge, but there are certain recipes that make it all worthwhile. One such recipe is the Pennsylvania Dutch Green/String Bean Soup, a comforting staple from my childhood. Growing up in a Pennsylvania Dutch household, this soup was a regular feature at our Sunday family dinners.

Its warm, comforting flavors bring back fond memories of laughter and love shared around the dinner table.

A timeless family tradition

When I first introduced this soup to my husband, he was intrigued. Knowing his love for vinegar-based foods and classic flavors, I was eager to see his reaction. As the aroma of the simmering soup filled our kitchen, I watched him take his first spoonful. His eyes lit up, and he immediately requested it become a regular part of our meal rotation.

Little did I know, this humble soup would become one of his most requested dishes. It’s heartwarming to see a piece of my heritage become a beloved tradition in our own family.

customizing with apple cider vinegar

One of the unique aspects of this soup is the addition of apple cider vinegar, which adds a delightful tanginess. It’s also what makes it a classic Pennsylvania Dutch recipe. To cater to individual tastes, I like to serve the soup with the vinegar bottle on the table. This way, everyone can adjust the acidity to their liking. It’s a simple touch that makes the meal interactive and enjoyable for everyone.

ham and string bean soup in the crockpot

What I love most about this soup is how easy it is to prepare, especially in a crockpot. With just a few simple ingredients—ham, green beans, potatoes, onion, and broth—you can create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. It’s perfect for using up leftover ham after the holidays, making it a practical choice for busy weeks. Simply toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

why your whole family will love this ham and green bean soup recipe

• Simple Ingredients
• Crowd-Pleasing Soup
• Kid Friendly
• Old-Fashioned Staple
• Irresistible Flavor

This soup has become a cherished recipe in our household, not only for its simplicity but also for the warmth it brings. It’s a wonderful way to connect with my roots and share a piece of my childhood with my own family. As we gather around the table, I’m reminded of those Sunday dinners from years past, filled with family, love, and delicious food.

Get ready for this simple soup recipe to be a familiar one at your table, too! I sure hope it brings the same warmth and happiness to your home as it does to ours. Shall we get started?

ingredients

To make family-loved ham and string bean soup recipe, you’ll need a few ingredients that you can get at almost any grocery store or even online!

Here’s what we are working with:

• 1 pound of ham, diced (you can use a ham hock or leftover ham)
• 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, plus extra for serving depending on taste preference
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• salt and pepper to taste

how to make ham and string bean soup in the crockpot

Prepare Ingredients: Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the ham, trim and cut the green beans, peel and dice the potatoes, and chop the onion and garlic.

Layer in Crockpot: Place the ham at the bottom of the crockpot. Place the green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients in the crockpot. Add the parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt and pepper to taste.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls. **Serve with apple cider vinegar on the table so everyone can adjust to their own individual tastes.

cooking and freezing tips

The whole recipe comes together seamlessly in the crockpot, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the day with family. Plus, this soup recipe freezes beautifully! I often make a big batch, freeze half in individual portions, and reheat as needed.

This recipe is just what you need during hectic weekday evenings when the last thing I want to do is cook from scratch. I fondly remember my grandmother making portions of this soup recipe to have on hand after having my babies. It was a lifesaver!

We hope you enjoy this simple slow cooker recipe as much as we do. It’s definitely one of those recipes worth saving. There’s nothing better than having what looks and tastes like a gourmet meal on the table, but one that saves you time behind the scenes. 

Please leave us a star review and comment if you make this family loved recipe. 

If you have any questions or comments, feel free leave them below. I answer every single question as quickly as I can.

Happy cooking! And thanks for being part of our tribe, The Tasteful Tribe!

ENJOY!

If you love this recipe, check out…

• Simple Creamy Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
• Better Than Grandma’s PA Dutch Potato and Bread Stuffing

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to tag thetastefultribe on instagram @thetastefultribe if you try this easy crockpot ham and string/green bean soup recipe. We love seeing your version of the recipe! You can also post your pictures to our facebook page!