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 hamburger meat; 2 cups green beans, trimmed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Comfort Creations

I absolutely love this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet recipe! It brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in just one pan. Whenever I’m short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal, this is my go-to option. The combination of seasoned hamburger meat with fresh green beans makes for a hearty dish that I can whip up in under 30 minutes. It’s an effortless way to get dinner on the table without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:05:36.043Z

When I first made this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet, I was hankering for a meal that was both comforting and quick to prepare. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its simplicity but also in how the flavors meld together beautifully as everything cooks in one pan. I often throw in a pinch of garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Each time I serve this dish, I find that the colorful green beans brighten the plate and make it appealing. It's a dish that's not only delicious but also makes for easy cleanup. A dollop of sour cream on top can really elevate the meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick one-pan meal for busy nights
Packed with protein and veggies
Savory flavors the whole family will enjoy

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet lies in the quality of the ingredients. For the hamburger meat, opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness. This fat helps keep the meat succulent while it cooks, providing a hearty base for the dish. On the other hand, fresh green beans not only add vibrant color but also a satisfying crunch, contrasting nicely with the tender meat.

Using fresh ingredients makes a noticeable difference in flavor. When selecting green beans, look for those that are bright green and firm to the touch, avoiding any that are limp or dull. The onion and garlic also play crucial roles, as they build the foundation of flavor when sautéed. Sautéing these aromatics first allows their natural sweetness to develop, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Technique Tips for Success

When cooking the hamburger meat, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat; this helps achieve a nice browning effect. Browning not only adds depth to the flavor but also a slight texture that enhances the dish. If the meat starts to stick, it’s a sign the skillet is hot enough, so don’t hesitate to scrape up those flavorful bits. This technique also contributes to a more complex taste in the final result.

For beautifully cooked green beans, aim for a tender-crisp texture. The ideal cooking time in this recipe is around 8-10 minutes. If you prefer them softer, simply extend this time by a few minutes. Be mindful, though; overcooked beans can lose their bright green color and appealing crunch, which is truly the star of this skillet dish. A splash of water can be added to help steam the beans if you find they need a bit more time.

Serving and Storing Your Dish

This Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet is excellent served on its own, but you can also complement it with sides like rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.

Should you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb hamburger meat
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Hamburger Meat

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Increase the heat slightly and add the hamburger meat, cooking until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add the Green Beans

Once the meat is browned, stir in the green beans and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender but still vibrant.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream.

Pro Tips

To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also substitute green beans with any other fresh vegetable you have on hand.

Homemade Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Substitute the ground beef with other proteins like ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier twist. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture, making it adaptable for different dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

In addition to green beans, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to increase the vegetable content and introduce new flavors. Just be aware of the cooking times, as softer vegetables like zucchini may require less time than green beans. Experimenting with seasonings can also yield exciting results; try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your hamburger meat releases too much fat during cooking, consider draining some of the excess liquid once it's browned. This ensures the dish doesn’t become greasy and allows for a more concentrated flavor without excess fat. Conversely, if the meat seems to dry out, a splash of beef broth can reinvigorate moisture without diminishing the dish's integrity.

If the green beans are overcooked and mushy, try adjusting your cooking method next time. Cooking them separately in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the skillet can help you maintain that ideal tender-crisp texture. Always taste along the way; this is a great way to avoid overcooking any component of your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet meal goes well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.