- Easy, hands-off slow cooker preparation.
- Tender greens with rich, smoky flavor.
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
- Perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
- Delicious served with cornbread.
- Great for preparing ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Collard Greens
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 1 smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt, to taste
Directions
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly, remove the tough stems, and chop the leaves.
- Place the smoked ham hock or turkey leg in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the onion, garlic, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the collard greens in batches, pressing them down gently to fit.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the greens are tender.
- Remove the smoked meat and let it cool slightly.
- Shred the meat, discard the bones and skin, and return the meat to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together and taste before adding salt.
- Serve warm with some of the flavorful cooking broth.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
- Total time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Turkey Collard Greens: Use smoked turkey instead of ham.
- Vegetarian: Replace the meat with smoked paprika and vegetable broth.
- Spicy Greens: Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Bacon Collard Greens: Add cooked, crumbled bacon.
- Sweet and Tangy: Increase the vinegar slightly and add a little brown sugar.
- Mixed Greens: Combine collards with mustard or turnip greens.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a little cooking broth until thoroughly heated. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I cook collard greens in a slow cooker?
Yes. Slow cooking makes collard greens tender while allowing the flavors to develop.
2. Do I need to remove the stems?
It’s best to remove the thick, tough stems, although smaller tender stems can remain.
3. Can I use frozen collard greens?
Yes. Frozen collard greens work well and may require less cooking time.
4. Why are my collard greens bitter?
Collard greens naturally have a slightly bitter flavor. Slow cooking, smoky meat, and a little vinegar help balance it.
5. Can I make collard greens without meat?
Absolutely. Use vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and olive oil for a vegetarian version.
6. How do I know when collard greens are done?
The leaves should be tender and easy to chew without being tough or stringy.
7. Can I prepare collard greens ahead of time?
Yes. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
8. What does vinegar do in collard greens?
Vinegar adds acidity and helps balance the rich, smoky flavor.
9. Can I freeze cooked collard greens?
Yes. Freeze them with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months.
10. What should I serve with collard greens?
Cornbread, fried chicken, barbecue, baked beans, and mashed potatoes are excellent choices.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Collard Greens are a flavorful Southern comfort food made with tender greens, smoky meat, and savory broth. With minimal preparation and slow cooking, this easy side dish is perfect for family meals, holidays, and traditional Southern dinners.
