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

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I love a good one-skillet meal, and this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet never disappoints. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory hamburger meat and fresh green beans creates a delightful contrast that my family can’t get enough of. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile; I often switch up the seasonings or add in a mix of vegetables that I have on hand. It’s truly a go-to recipe for us!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:01:35.716Z

One evening, I found myself staring at a fridge full of green beans and ground beef, searching for inspiration. I decided to throw together what would become one of our family favorites. The recipe was so simple yet packed with flavor, making it an instant hit at the dinner table. It reminded me of classic comfort food, with a quick and modern twist.

As I sautéed the hamburger meat and added in the fresh green beans, the aroma filled my kitchen. I realized that using fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also retains vibrant colors, making the dish visually appealing. This is a meal that will keep you coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A complete meal made in one skillet for easy cleanup.
The savory ground beef pairs perfectly with crisp green beans.
Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
Easily adaptable with your favorite seasonings or extra vegetables.

Understanding the Ingredients

The core of this dish is ground hamburger meat, which provides not only protein but also a rich and savory flavor. When selecting your meat, aim for a leaner option, such as 80/20, to prevent excessive grease while still ensuring juiciness. Ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted for a lighter twist, but be mindful that these alternatives may require a bit more seasoning due to their milder flavor profiles.

Fresh green beans are essential for adding both crunch and nutrition to this skillet meal. Look for vibrant, firm beans with no soft spots. If fresh isn't available, you can use frozen green beans; just reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy. The green beans not only complement the beef but also provide a delightful textural contrast that makes each bite interesting.

Essential Cooking Techniques

For the best results, start by ensuring your skillet is adequately heated before adding the olive oil. A medium heat allows the onions to caramelize and develop a sweet flavor without burning. If the skillet is too hot, you risk having burnt onions and undercooked meat, which can create an unpleasant taste. You should observe the onions turning translucent and slightly golden before adding the hamburger meat.

When breaking up the ground meat, use a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula to ensure even browning. Aim for small, uniform pieces, as this helps the meat cook thoroughly and caramelize on the edges. If you notice that your meat is releasing too much liquid, increase the heat slightly or drain excess fat to achieve that sought-after golden color, which enhances the dish's overall flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 pound ground hamburger meat
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Make sure to have everything measured and ready!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground hamburger meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, approximately 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine with Green Beans

Next, add the trimmed green beans and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 8-10 minutes until the green beans are tender yet crisp.

Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the ground beef while cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet can be an ideal make-ahead meal. To save time, cook it in advance, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep during busy weeks.

If you're thinking of freezing leftovers, portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. The green beans will retain a good texture if they are not overcooked during reheating, so keep an eye on them.

Serving Suggestions

For a more complete meal, consider serving this skillet dish over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. The grains will soak up the juices from the meat and soy sauce, adding another layer of flavor. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for additional dimension and visual appeal.

If you're looking to add more variety, serve this dish with a simple garden salad or some crusty bread. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the savory meat, while bread provides a great way to mop up any remaining sauce. For a touch of spice, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes could elevate the overall taste experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! Cook it ahead of time, let it cool, and portion it out for easy reheating during the week.