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 hamburger meat; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love whipping up this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet because it’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of savory hamburger meat and crisp green beans creates a delightful dish that the whole family adores. I often enjoy this on busy weeknights when I need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:52:45.986Z

When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a staple in my house. The balance of flavors from the sautéed garlic and tender green beans perfectly complements the juicy hamburger meat. One specific detail I’ve learned is to avoid overcooking the green beans; they should retain a bit of their crunch for the best texture.

In experimenting with different seasonings, I discovered that a touch of soy sauce adds an unexpected depth of flavor. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a satisfying meal that everyone, including my picky eaters, enjoys!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with every bite
Fresh green beans add a delightful crunch
Incredibly quick and easy for busy nights

Perfecting the Texture of Your Green Beans

When adding fresh green beans to your skillet, it's essential to keep them crisp, which enhances the overall texture of the dish. Aim to sauté them until they turn bright green, this usually takes about 2–3 minutes after adding them to the skillet. This quick cooking method ensures they maintain their vibrant color and crunchy bite, contrasting beautifully with the savory hamburger meat.

If you prefer a softer bean, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This pre-cooking technique can help achieve a tender texture while still integrating the beans into the final dish seamlessly.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

Soy sauce not only adds saltiness but also a depth of umami flavor that complements the ground hamburger meat. For a twist, consider swapping regular soy sauce with a low-sodium version to reduce salt intake or using tamari for a gluten-free option. You might also experiment with adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of sesame oil for added complexity.

Garlic plays a vital role in flavoring this dish. For an extra hint of freshness, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of black pepper along with the minced garlic. This little addition can elevate your skillet to a new level with a subtle heat that pairs well with the hearty ingredients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground hamburger meat
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Hamburger Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and then the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the ground hamburger meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Garlic and Green Beans

Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add in the fresh green beans, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.

Simmer and Serve

Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the hamburger meat while cooking. It enhances the savoriness of the dish!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, ensure that the skillet has cooled completely before sealing it. Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps preserve the crunch of the green beans.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the skillet reheating method. If reheating directly from frozen, add a splash of water to create steam, which will help cook the beans without losing their crispness.

Variations to Try

This dish is highly versatile! If you're looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for hamburger meat. Just be mindful that these leaner meats might require an extra dash of seasoning to enhance their flavor. For a vegetarian variation, consider using tempeh or crumbled firm tofu in place of meat while adding the same seasonings to enrich the dish.

Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on what you have on hand. Adding bell peppers, carrots, or even broccoli can create a more colorful and nutrient-packed meal. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for tougher vegetables, allowing them to soften before adding the green beans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Just be aware that they may take slightly longer to cook.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with rice or potatoes for a more filling meal.

→ Can I substitute the hamburger meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would also work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to your skillet for an extra kick!