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: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I love preparing quick and hearty meals, and this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet has become one of my favorites. It's easy to whip up in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of savory ground beef and crunchy green beans never disappoints, and the rich flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, this dish is not only delicious but also packs in the nutrients, providing a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:44:49.025Z

When I first made this skillet dish, I was on a mission to create something satisfying but quick. The combination of ground beef and fresh green beans was an experiment that worked wonderfully. I enhanced the flavor by adding a splash of soy sauce and some spices, which made the whole dish pop. The best part is that everything cooks together in one pan!

I recommend using fresh, crisp green beans for that perfect texture contrast. I’ve tried it with frozen beans before, but they can become a bit mushy. Using a cast-iron skillet really locks in the flavor, making this dish a go-to for me. I know you’ll love it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef cooked to perfection
Crisp green beans add a delightful crunch
Works as a quick meal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Texture

The combination of ground beef and green beans creates a delightful contrast in texture that's essential for this dish. When browning the beef, aim for a nice sear; this adds depth of flavor. You want to hear that sizzle when the meat hits the pan. Stir occasionally but allow it to sit for a minute or two to develop those golden bits on the bottom. These flavorful bits contribute to the overall taste of the dish.

When adding the green beans, make sure they stay vibrant and crunchy. Cook them just until tender; overcooking will result in a mushy texture that contrasts unpleasantly with the beef. A tip for keeping them crisp is to stir them gently and continuously for the first couple of minutes after adding them to the skillet, then allow them to sauté undisturbed for the final minutes.

Flavor Enhancements

The soy sauce and paprika in this recipe are not just seasonings; they are pivotal in building umami flavor in the dish. Soy sauce brings a savory depth, while paprika adds a warm, slightly smoky note that enhances the ground beef's richness. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a few drops of sesame oil to the soy sauce; these tweaks can elevate the overall flavor profile remarkably.

If you're looking for a twist, try incorporating different fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, which pair wonderfully with beef and add an aromatic layer. Adding them towards the end of cooking ensures that their flavors remain vibrant and bold, giving your skillet a fresh and inviting aroma.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

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

Once you've collected all the ingredients, you’re ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your skillet masterpiece:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Add the Green Beans

Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the trimmed green beans. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the beans are tender yet still crisp.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving. It melts beautifully into the dish!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet is fantastic for meal prep, as it stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, and stir until heated through.

You can also freeze leftover portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain that delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish serves beautifully on its own, but you might consider pairing it with some fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the savory juices. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can add a lovely nutty flavor and visual appeal. For a complete meal, a simple green salad on the side would provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet dish.

Additionally, if you want to cater to dietary preferences, this skillet can be easily adapted. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that still retains the dish's comforting quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid mushiness.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken make great lean alternatives!

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or carrots would work well in this recipe.