Crock Pot Collard Greens and Ham

Slow-simmered to perfection, this Crock Pot Collard Greens and Ham recipe delivers all the savory, smoky, and tangy flavors of classic Southern comfort food with minimal effort. Tender collard greens are infused with the rich essence of smoked ham hocks and seasoned with a flavorful combination of garlic, onion, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of brown sugar for balance. Using a crock pot ensures the greens are melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the meat falling off the bone for easy shredding. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this hearty dish is perfect as a side or paired with cornbread for a satisfying meal. It’s an easy and soul-warming recipe that’s ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:360 mins

Total Time:375 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh collard greens
• 1 smoked ham hocks or ham shank
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly to remove dirt and grit. Trim the tough stems and cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the crock pot.

Step 4

Place the ham hock or ham shank in the crock pot. Add the prepared collard greens on top.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Step 7

After 6 hours, the collard greens should be tender, and the ham should be falling off the bone. Use tongs to remove the ham hock or shank. Shred or chop the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat, and return the meat to the crock pot.

Step 8

Stir everything well and taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

Step 9

Serve hot as a side dish or with cornbread for a complete Southern meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2146.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	805.4

Total Fat 34.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 60mg	0%
Sodium 5642.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.8g	0%
Total Sugars 20.3g
Protein 60.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2248.0mg	0%
Iron 9.0mg	0%
Potassium 3248.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.0%

Protein: 27.1%

Carbs: 37.9%