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 pound ground beef; 2 cups green beans, trimmed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Classics

I love whipping up this Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet on busy weeknights when time is of the essence. It’s a super simple yet comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef and fresh green beans, all in one pan. The best part? It cooks in just 30 minutes, making it a quick option for families or anyone in need of a hearty meal without the fuss. This skillet is often my go-to because it’s nutritious, delicious, and truly satisfying!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:27:37.057Z

When I first created this Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet, I wanted to combine something hearty with a fresh twist. I found that the green beans add a crisp texture that perfectly balances the richness of the beef. The real secret to making this dish pop is adding a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of garlic—these ingredients elevate the flavor profile without overshadowing the main components.

I've tried this dish with different vegetables and spices, but I always come back to the classic ground beef and green bean combination. This simplicity allows the flavors to shine, making it a beloved staple in my kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and cleanup is a breeze, which is a win-win in my book!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying one-pan meal
Balanced flavors with a touch of soy sauce
Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

When selecting ground beef for this skillet, aim for a mixture with 80% lean meat to 20% fat. This gives you a balance of flavor and juiciness without being overly greasy. Too lean of a mix may yield a dry texture, while too fatty can make the dish oily. I personally find that using grass-fed beef adds a richer flavor, elevating the overall taste of the dish.

Additionally, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this skillet. Just remember that these leaner options might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them while they brown to prevent overcooking.

Perfecting the Green Beans

Fresh green beans provide a delightful crunch and vibrant color to this dish. Look for beans that are firm and bright green, as dull or limp beans can negatively affect the texture and flavor. Trim the ends carefully and consider blanching them for about 2 minutes before adding them to the skillet if you prefer a more tender result.

If fresh green beans aren’t available, frozen ones can be used in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since they’re prepped and often blanched. Add them frozen at the same time as the soy sauce, and allow a few extra minutes for them to warm through.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet is highly customizable. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas for added nutrition and color. If you're feeling adventurous, a teaspoon of sesame oil can enhance the dish with a nutty flavor complementing the soy sauce beautifully.

For serving, I recommend pairing this skillet with a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up those savory juices. You can also top it with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added texture and flavor. If you have leftovers, they reheat well in the microwave or can be enjoyed cold as a protein-packed salad.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 pound ground beef
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Green Beans and Season

Stir in the green beans, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storing and Reheating

To store any leftover Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

When reheating, I suggest warming it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and to retain the green beans' texture. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to revive it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ground beef isn’t browning as expected, ensure that your skillet is preheated properly. A medium-high heat is typically ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown color. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can trap steam and prevent browning.

Should you find your dish lacking flavor, a little more soy sauce can go a long way. Adjusting the seasoning at the end of cooking can help balance it out. Adding a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving can also bring a fresh brightness to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and green beans in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Absolutely! Just add them to the skillet along with the ground beef and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce to kick up the heat.