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 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Recipes

I love quick and easy meals that don't sacrifice flavor, and this Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet is a perfect example! With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying dish that my whole family enjoys. The savory hamburger meat pairs beautifully with crisp green beans, creating a delicious texture and taste that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe has become one of my go-to favorites for its simplicity and heartiness.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:49:35.584Z

Cooking this Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet was an experiment I thoroughly enjoyed. I wanted a dish that was quick yet delicious, and after trying a few variations, I found the perfect balance between the savory meat and fresh green beans. The method allows for the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the beans crisp, offering a delightful crunch in every bite.

One of the best tips I discovered during this process was to season the meat as it cooks. This helps infuse the flavors, making for a more delicious final dish. My family loves how the garlic and onion enhance the savory flavor profile, making it truly irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Savory and satisfying, packed with protein and vegetables
Versatile dish that works great as leftovers

Unlocking Flavor with Sautéed Aromatics

The foundation of flavor in this Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet begins with the sautéed onion and garlic. Cooking these aromatics in olive oil over medium heat not only releases their natural sweetness but also creates a fragrant base that complements the beef beautifully. Aim for the onions to turn translucent and soft before adding the beef, which can take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall depth of the dish.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the onions. This will infuse a subtle heat that contrasts perfectly with the savory beef and fresh green beans. Just remember to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter and detract from the dish's flavor.

Perfecting the Green Beans

When adding the green beans, it's important to monitor their cooking time for optimal texture. Fresh green beans should be vibrant and bright green when properly cooked—aim for a tender-crisp consistency. Covering the skillet allows steam to build, ensuring even cooking, but be cautious not to overcook them as they can lose their appealing crunch. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.

If fresh green beans aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen ones. However, adjust the cooking time as frozen beans may require a couple of extra minutes to heat through. Just add them directly to the skillet and cook until they're heated and tender but not mushy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet stands well on its own, serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa adds a hearty grain component that balances the meal. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. This will not just elevate the dish but will also add a refreshing crunch.

To tailor the recipe to your taste preferences, consider adding a splash of sesame oil after cooking for an extra layer of flavor. For a more robust dish, mushrooms or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the onions, enriching the flavor profile while maintaining the quick-cooking nature of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty skillet meal:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create a flavorful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet:

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Green Beans

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the green beans. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender yet still crisp.

Serve

Remove from heat and give it a final stir. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet!

Enjoy your meal while it's hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or substitute the green beans with other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra variety.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of the Hamburger Meat And Green Bean Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure the best texture when reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. This prevents the green beans from becoming too soft and allows the beef to reheat evenly without drying out.

If you're looking to make this a meal prep option, consider doubling the recipe! It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop for a satisfying meal without the hassle. Just remember to check seasoning after reheating, as flavors may intensify in the freezer.

Dietary Adjustments

This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary needs. For a lighter, lower-fat version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, which provide a similar texture while reducing overall fat content. Just be mindful that these meats may cook faster, so keep an eye to avoid drying them out.

Additionally, if you’re following a gluten-free diet, opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to maintain the savory flavor without compromising your dietary restrictions. This ensures that everyone can enjoy a delicious skillet meal without any concerns!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes! You can definitely use frozen green beans. Just add them directly to the skillet and adjust the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it over rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Try adding some chili flakes or sriracha sauce while cooking the meat for a kick of heat.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the recipe in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.