Ground Beef And Green Bean Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Green Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb green beans, trimmed; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I love whipping up this Ground Beef And Green Bean Skillet when I'm pressed for time but still want something hearty and delicious. It's a one-pan wonder that brings together savory ground beef and crisp green beans in just 30 minutes. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the flavors meld so beautifully that I often find myself going back for seconds. Plus, it's a great dish to customize with your favorite seasonings or veggies, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:09:35.512Z

When I first made this Ground Beef And Green Bean Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it all came together. The combination of spices and the natural sweetness of the green beans perfectly complements the richness of the beef. I remember experimenting with various seasonings until I found the right balance, and now it's a staple in my household. This dish not only saves time in the kitchen but also keeps the cleanup minimal!

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor. If you're short on time, you can even use frozen ones, but I recommend adding them halfway through cooking to avoid overcooking. Trust me, the freshness really elevates this dish and makes it enjoyable for everyone around the table.

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Fresh green beans add a nice crunch
Versatile enough to customize to your taste
One-pan cooking for easy cleanup

Why Green Beans Matter

Green beans play a vital role in this dish, providing not only a pop of color but also a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the ground beef. Their freshness enhances the overall flavor profile, making the dish feel well-rounded. When choosing green beans, look for bright, firm beans without any blemishes. Trim the ends just before cooking to ensure maximum freshness and a crisp texture in the final dish.

Cooking the green beans for just the right amount of time is key. They should be tender but still have a slight snap when bitten. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which detracts from the dish's appealing contrast. Aim for about 5 minutes of cooking time after adding them to the skillet, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking without losing that desired crunch.

Substituting Ingredients

While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily make it a bit healthier or accommodate dietary restrictions by swapping it for ground turkey or chicken. Both will still yield a deliciously hearty skillet while reducing fat content. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as these leaner meats can cook more quickly than beef. Always season well to enhance the flavor, especially since these alternatives can be milder.

If you don't have green beans on hand, other vegetables can step in beautifully. Consider using snap peas, broccoli florets, or even bell peppers as substitutes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly. For example, bell peppers will need about 5-7 minutes to soften properly, while broccoli may require slightly longer, around 7-10 minutes. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have available.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. I recommend letting it cool completely before sealing it to maintain the best texture. If you want to enjoy it later, consider portioning it out before storing, making it easier to reheat only what you need.

When ready to reheat, the skillet works best. Warm the leftovers over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even warming and to prevent sticking. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or beef broth to rejuvenate the flavors and moisture. This simple reheating technique keeps the dish delicious and enjoyable without sacrificing its quality.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 lb green beans, trimmed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.

Add the Green Beans

Stir in the trimmed green beans and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender yet crisp.

Finish with Soy Sauce

Pour in the soy sauce and stir everything well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve hot.

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or bread.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add your favorite spices to personalize the dish. It's also great for meal prep—just store it in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet, don’t shy away from adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a finishing touch. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs right before serving adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory beef beautifully. Additionally, a dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat if you enjoy a spicy kick!

You might also consider incorporating a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking. This small addition brightens the overall taste, cutting through the richness of the beef and enhancing the flavors of the green beans. Just a teaspoon or two can make a surprising difference, leaving your dish tasting fresh and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish stands alone wonderfully, but it pairs beautifully with a side of rice or noodles if you want to bulk up the meal. Consider serving it over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside whole grain noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple side salad could also be a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef and green beans, offering a crisp, cool component to your dinner.

If you're hosting a gathering or looking for a family-style meal, serve the skillet in the center of the table where everyone can help themselves. This creates a casual dining experience while allowing guests to interact with all the ingredients. I love to place a basket of crusty bread on the side, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the savory sauce wrapped in a piece of bread for a delightful bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions for easy reheating, but note that the texture of the green beans may change slightly.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas for added nutrients and flavor.