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: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb ground hamburger meat; 2 cups green beans, trimmed; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Collection

I love making this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet on busy weeknights when I need a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. The combination of juicy hamburger meat and fresh green beans not only creates a delicious flavor but also offers a perfect balance of protein and veggies. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up this one-pan dish, and the best part is that it’s easily customizable with whatever seasonings or spices I have on hand. It’s a meal the whole family will enjoy!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:13:36.383Z

I first created this Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet during a hectic week where time was of the essence, but I still wanted a nutritious meal. The simplicity of browning ground beef while sautéing green beans made it a big hit in our house. I quickly discovered that adding a sprinkle of garlic powder enriched the flavors immensely, elevating the dish far beyond its basic components.

By using fresh green beans, I also ensured that the meal had that satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tender meat. Adjusting the seasoning is key; feel free to toss in your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish uniquely yours. Trust me, it’s becoming a staple in my weeknight lineup!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy evenings
Packed with protein and fresh vegetables
Quick to prepare and easy to customize

Flavor Boosting Techniques

To elevate the flavor profile of your Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet, consider marinating your ground hamburger meat with spices before cooking. A simple marinade of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can add depth. Additionally, browning the meat well until it develops a nice crust not only enhances its flavor but also adds a savoriness that complements the green beans beautifully.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a slight caramelization. This process should take about 3-5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are golden and the garlic is fragrant. This browning leads to a more complex taste, ensuring that each bite of the dish carries a layer of flavor rather than just relying on seasoning.

Ingredient Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on availability or seasonal produce. Bell peppers and zucchini can be delicious additions, adding texture and a hint of sweetness. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly; for example, sliced bell peppers will cook faster than green beans, so add them after the onions for optimal results.

If you're looking to make this dish more nutritious, substituting ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger meat works well. Both options provide a leaner alternative while still providing protein. However, monitor cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time to cook through and a lower heat to avoid drying out.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a hearty meal:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground hamburger meat
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Seasonings

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Having everything prepared makes cooking a breeze!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious skillet dish:

Cook the Hamburger Meat

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground hamburger meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the green beans and season with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.

Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the green beans to become tender while the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your nutritious meal!

Now you're ready to dig in!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for variety. This dish works great with different types of ground meat too, such as turkey or chicken.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Hamburger Meat and Green Bean Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to gently warm the meal, which helps retain the texture of the green beans. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it seems dry.

For a longer shelf life, consider freezing the dish. Just be aware that while the flavor remains intact, the texture of the green beans might change slightly after thawing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to two months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet meal with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of steamed rice for a more filling option. Both choices absorb the delicious juices from the dish, making every bite satisfying. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider pairing it with a fresh salad, balancing the hearty skillet with refreshing greens.

To add a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. A dash of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors. For those who love a bit of heat, consider serving it with a side of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to kick it up a notch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them beforehand and adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free!