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 pound ground beef; 2 cups green beans, trimmed; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Traditions

When I think of quick and satisfying meals, the Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet always comes to mind. This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with the freshness of green beans, resulting in a meal that's both flavorful and easy to prepare. I love how this recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The best part? It’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup for me after a long day.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:09:36.293Z

Creating the Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet became a delightful evening experiment for me. I wanted a dish that balanced protein and vegetables while being ready in a snap. By sautéing the ground beef until golden brown, I discovered that browning not only enhances the flavor but also brings a richness to the entire meal. This simple step makes all the difference!

As I added the crisp-tender green beans, I reminisced about family dinners where one-pan meals were always a hit. The colors and smells were enticing, and I realized that adding seasonings like garlic powder and soy sauce could take it up a notch. This dish hits the sweet spot of being both comforting and nutritious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
A perfect blend of protein and vegetables in one skillet
Rich flavors with minimal cleanup required

Maximizing Flavor with Ground Beef

The choice of ground beef impacts the overall flavor and texture of the dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. This blend retains moisture during cooking, preventing dryness that can occur with leaner cuts. While browning the beef, aim for a golden-brown color; it not only enhances the taste through caramelization but also gives the dish a more appetizing appearance.

When sautéing the onion initially, be careful not to rush this step. Cooking it slowly until just softened will bring out its natural sweetness, creating a wonderful base for the savory elements to follow. This step takes about 3 minutes on medium heat, and it's worth making sure the onion is translucent before adding the beef.

Perfecting the Green Beans

Fresh green beans are key to this dish, providing not only color but also a satisfying crunch. Choosing crisp, bright green beans will ensure they cook perfectly; look for beans that snap easily when bent. If you have frozen green beans on hand, they can work in a pinch. Just be aware that they will release more moisture during cooking, so add them earlier to ensure they have time to lose excess water and cook through properly.

When adding green beans to the skillet, stir frequently for even cooking. You want them to be crisp-tender, which generally takes about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; once they turn bright green and have a slight snap when bitten into, they're ready. This not only brings out their natural flavor but also preserves their nutrients.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, consider pairing this skillet dish with a side of rice or quinoa to absorb the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions can elevate the dish, adding visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. I often serve it with a dash of chili flakes for those who appreciate a bit of heat.

If you're looking to make the dish ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you plan to freeze it, do so after cooking, and be sure to leave out the green beans until reheating to maintain their crunchy texture.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 pound ground beef
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Combine all the ingredients for a quick and delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Green Beans

Once the beef is cooked, add the green beans and garlic to the skillet. Stir in garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the beans are crisp-tender.

Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using teriyaki sauce or adding red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables in this dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli can be great substitutes for green beans. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose, as some may require longer or shorter cooking times to achieve the desired texture.

If you're looking to make this meal healthier or vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative. You might also want to consider using tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this easy and flavorful dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your beef releases too much grease during cooking, it may be due to cooking at too high of a heat. To combat this, reduce the heat to medium and allow the beef to brown more gradually; this helps render some fat while still achieving a good sear.

Another common issue could be overcooking the green beans, leading to a mushy texture. To avoid this, it's essential to keep a close eye on them and taste-test periodically. They should be vibrant and bright green, cooking just until they are tender but still retain a slight crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is complete on its own, but you can serve it with rice or bread if you prefer.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.