Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Dishes

I love making this Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet because it's a delicious one-pan meal that brings together protein and veggies in no time. The combination of savory hamburger meat and vibrant green beans creates a satisfying dish that my whole family enjoys. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a hearty dinner that’s both comforting and nutritious. Every bite is a reminder that simple meals can be the most delightful ones!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:45:36.281Z

When I first made this Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet, I was looking for a quick, family-friendly dinner that didn’t require much cleanup. Using a single skillet not only saved me time but also allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. I seasoned the meat well, which elevated the entire dish. The vibrant green beans added a bright color and crunch that contrasted perfectly with the ground beef.

Another tip I discovered is that cooking the green beans just until tender preserves their bright color and nutrients. You can even customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. It’s truly a versatile one-pan wonder that we love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Hearty and satisfying with every bite
Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the ground beef, remember to break it apart gently with a wooden spoon. This ensures that it browns evenly and creates those flavorful caramelized bits that enhance the overall taste of the dish. Aim for a medium heat—too hot and you risk burning the garlic and onions, while too low may result in a greasy texture without the needed browning. After about 5-7 minutes, look for the beef to be a nice golden brown with no pink remaining.

Don’t be afraid to let the green beans cook a little longer if you prefer a softer texture. However, keep an eye on them to maintain some crunch; they should be bright green and tender-crisp. Stirring occasionally while they cook ensures that they don't scorch on the bottom of the skillet. Adding soy sauce at this stage deepens the umami flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground beef is crucial. I always use a 80/20 beef blend for this recipe; the fat content helps keep the meat moist while contributing rich flavor. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can work well, but be cautious as they can dry out more quickly. Adjust the seasoning accordingly—leaner meats may require a bit more salt and flavor-enhancers like additional soy sauce.

Fresh green beans are preferred for their vibrant color and crisp texture, but frozen ones can be a convenient substitute. If using frozen beans, add them directly from the freezer to the skillet, as they will release added moisture that can enhance the dish’s flavor. For a twist, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end for a different flavor profile.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon paprika

These ingredients come together quickly for a flavorful meal.

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Add Green Beans

Once the beef is browned, stir in the green beans and soy sauce. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender but still crisp.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty meal directly from the skillet!

Enjoy this quick and tasty dish any night of the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adding spices like cumin or chili powder can also give the dish additional depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet is versatile when it comes to meal prep. You can cook the hamburger meat in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the meat in your skillet, then add the green beans and follow the remaining cooking steps. This drastically reduces the time needed for a weeknight meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop to keep the beans crisp, adding a splash of water to prevent them from drying out. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen—just make sure to cool it thoroughly before freezing to maintain texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this dish further, consider serving it with a side of rice or quinoa. These grains will soak up the savory juices from the skillet, turning the meal into a more comforting experience. For a fresh contrast, a simple salad with vinaigrette can balance out the hearty flavors of the meat and beans.

For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the top just before serving. This adds a nice kick that complements the richness of the beef. Alternatively, sharp cheddar or crumbled feta cheese can add another layer of flavor—feel free to experiment based on your family's preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can work well. Just add them directly to the skillet but increase the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet is great on its own, but you can also serve it over rice or with a side salad.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out in containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.