Here’s a delicious, easy slow cooker collard greens recipe that’s flavorful and tender without being too heavy. I’ll include tips to make them perfectly savory.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb collard greens, washed, tough stems removed, chopped
- 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices of thick-cut bacon (optional for flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1–2 tsp apple cider vinegar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Wash collard greens thoroughly to remove grit. Remove thick stems and roughly chop leaves.
- Layer flavors in the slow cooker: Place the ham hock or bacon at the bottom. Add onions, garlic, and greens. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and smoked paprika if using.
- Add liquid: Pour in the broth so the greens are mostly submerged.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until greens are tender.
- Finish with tang and seasoning: Remove the ham hock, shred any meat back into the pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
- Serve: Delicious with cornbread, rice, or as a side to your favorite southern-style main dish.
Tips for Perfect Collard Greens
- For extra smoky flavor, brown bacon first in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
- If you like thicker, “stew-like” greens, reduce the broth slightly.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—flavors deepen overnight.
If you want, I can also give a vegan slow cooker version that’s just as rich and savory without using meat.
Do you want me to do that?
