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 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

When I first made the Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet, I was craving something hearty yet easy to whip up. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish quickly became a weeknight favorite for my family. The savory blend of ground beef and fresh green beans is not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients. I love how the flavors meld together, making every bite satisfying and comforting. Perfect for busy nights, this skillet meal can be ready in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:56:46.449Z

Making this skillet meal brought back fond memories of family dinners where we gathered around the table and shared laughter and stories. I loved experimenting with seasonings, and adding a hint of garlic really brings out the beef's richness.

One tip I found helpful was to blanch the green beans first to retain their vibrant color and crispness. Trust me, it makes a noticeable difference in both appearance and texture, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as it is satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A one-pan meal that cuts down on cleanup time
Savory flavors that please both kids and adults
Can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet, every ingredient plays a vital role in achieving a well-rounded flavor profile. The ground beef not only provides protein but also serves as the star of the dish, adding richness and heartiness. When browned, the meat releases delicious juices that infuse the entire skillet with flavor, creating a savory base that enhances the dish's overall appeal. Using fresh green beans adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat, making each bite satisfying.

Onions and garlic, though seemingly simple, are crucial for building depth of flavor. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent—this indicates they have released their natural sweetness and aromatic qualities. The combination of salt and black pepper elevates all the flavors, while the soy sauce introduces an umami aspect that rounds off the savory notes beautifully, creating a complex but comforting taste.

Perfecting Your Technique

Blanching the green beans is an essential step that preserves both their vibrant color and crisp texture. When you transfer the beans to the ice bath after boiling, it stops the cooking process immediately, ensuring they don’t become mushy. If you skip this step, the beans may lose their bright green hue and crunch, resulting in a less appealing dish. Aim for the beans to cook for just 2 minutes in boiling water; this brief exposure keeps them flavorful and vibrant.

When cooking the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula while it browns contributes to a more textured and enjoyable bite. You want to ensure it's cooked to a deep brown for maximum flavor, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes over medium heat. If you notice excess fat accumulating in the pan, draining it is crucial before adding the green beans and seasonings, as this will make your dish more palatable and less greasy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Green Beans

Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. This preserves their bright color and crunch.

Cook the Beef

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

Combine and Season

Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the blanched green beans, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Mix well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty skillet dinner!

This is a meal you can feel good about serving to your family!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, storing the Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet is easy. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the texture of the green beans. If you're concerned about the beef drying out, adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist during reheating.

This skillet dish can be served as is or accompanied by rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. If you want to elevate it even more, try sprinkling some grated cheese over the top just before serving. The heat from the skillet will melt it beautifully. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish and cut through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a different flavor profile, consider swapping out the green beans for broccoli or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose. If you want to add more substance, mixing in shredded carrots or corn can add sweetness and color.

For a more robust flavor, adding spices like paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasing kick. Alternatively, for a lighter dish, consider using lean turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef. This simple swap won't significantly alter the cooking method but will provide a healthier option while still being delicious. Regardless of your choices, this recipe remains versatile and adaptable to your tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the skillet.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

This skillet meal pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.