Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Dishes

I love creating hearty meals that are both simple and flavorful, and this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet ticks all the boxes for me. The combination of seasoned beef and crisp green beans makes for a satisfying dish that comes together in no time. I often make this on busy weeknights when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup – a huge win in my book!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:40:49.304Z

When I first tried out this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The key to my recipe is using fresh green beans, which not only add a vibrant color to the dish but also a satisfying crunch. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate veggies into a meat-centric meal without sacrificing flavor.

One tip I would recommend is to season the beef generously and let it brown properly before adding the green beans. This creates a depth of flavor that really elevates the dish. I often serve it over rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal
One-pan dish means effortless cleanup
Flavorful beef combined with the crunch of fresh green beans

Ingredient Insight

The foundation of this dish is the ground beef, which not only provides protein but also adds rich flavor to the skillet. Using a higher fat content, such as 80/20, will yield a juicier result, but leaner options work well if you prefer to cut down on fat. Just keep in mind that with lean beef, you may need to add a bit more olive oil to prevent the dish from being too dry.

Fresh green beans are essential for this recipe, adding a wonderful crunch and vibrant color. Choose crisp-looking green beans, avoiding any that appear wilted or slack, as this will enhance the texture of the dish. If fresh isn't an option, you can substitute with frozen green beans—just add them straight to the skillet without thawing, but be mindful to adjust cooking time to ensure they are heated through.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef is a critical step; not only does it develop flavor, but it also affects the overall texture of the meat. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef; you should hear a sizzle as it hits the pan. Stir occasionally to get an even brown, allowing some bits to caramelize slightly for added depth. Aim for a rich, brown color without burning, which can occur if the heat is too high.

When adding the green beans, cover the skillet to create steam, helping them cook evenly and quickly. This method prevents them from becoming overly soggy. You want them tender yet still vibrant. If you're uncertain, taste them after about 10 minutes; they should be slightly crisp when done.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or switch up the veggies based on what's in your fridge.

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Incorporate Green Beans

Stir in the green beans, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the beans are tender.

Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving!

Pro Tips

To add more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some grated ginger to the dish while cooking the garlic.

Storing and Reheating

This Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet makes fantastic leftovers! Store any uneaten portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, opt for a skillet over the microwave, which can lead to uneven heating. Just a splash of water in the pan can help, covering it to create steam while warming it over medium heat.

If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the cooked dish. The best way is to let it cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it gently on the stove or in the oven.

Variations and Serving Ideas

For a twist, try incorporating different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, which can add to the nutritional value and flavor complexity. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process can provide a pleasant kick. Alternatively, you could use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option.

Serve the skillet over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or lighten it up by enjoying it alone or with a side salad. Adding a spritz of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory beef and beans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans instead?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Just add them to the skillet and cook until heated through.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.