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 fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Inspiration

I love whipping up my Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet for dinner when I need something quick yet satisfying. This dish brings together tender ground beef and crisp green beans in a savory sauce, making it a weeknight favorite. With just a few ingredients, I can serve up a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and veggies. It's become a go-to for busy evenings, and I always feel good knowing everyone enjoys it!

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:43:36.165Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of the sautéing beef combined with the flavor of garlic had my family rushing to the kitchen. I've tweaked the recipe over time, finding that adding a splash of soy sauce and a squeeze of lemon really enhances the overall taste. It’s the perfect blend of savory and fresh!

What I love most about this skillet is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use ground turkey for a lighter option. No matter how I change it up, it always comes out wonderfully and keeps us coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Packed with protein and nutritious veggies
Savory flavors that appeal to everyone in the family

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh green beans in this recipe not only enhances the dish's flavor but also adds a lovely crunch. I recommend choosing bright green beans without blemishes, as they will retain their color and texture better during cooking. If you're short on time, frozen green beans can be a good substitute; just ensure you thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

The ground beef is the star of this dish, providing essential protein and richness. Opt for a leaner cut (like 80/20) to balance flavor and health benefits. If you're looking to reduce fat, you can use ground turkey or chicken, adjusting the cooking time as they may cook more quickly. This flexibility allows for healthier variations without sacrificing the meal's heartiness.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

A key technique in this recipe is properly browning the ground beef. Cook it over medium heat until it's no longer pink, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Ensure you break it into smaller pieces as it cooks for even browning. If you notice any moisture at the bottom of the pan, increase the heat slightly to evaporate excess liquid, ensuring a more flavorful result.

When adding the green beans, cover the skillet to trap steam, which makes them tender without overcooking. Keep an eye on them; cooking for 8 minutes will result in perfectly cooked beans that still retain a slight bite. If you prefer them softer, you can extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes but be careful not to let them turn mushy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your skillet dish:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are chopped and prepared before starting to cook for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

Add the Green Beans

Stir in the green beans, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8 minutes, allowing the green beans to steam and become tender.

Finish and Serve

Remove the lid, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and mix well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then serve hot.

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Pro Tips

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spice kick, if desired!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and divide it into individual portions. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a quick reheat option for lunch or dinner. This way, you can enjoy the flavors throughout the week without cooking from scratch every time.

If you want to freeze any leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

While the skillet dish is delicious on its own, it can be elevated with various serving ideas. I love pairing it with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the savory juices. For a low-carb option, it can be served over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, adding even more nutrients into the meal.

For those looking to add a bit more spice, serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to bring an extra kick. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or any other favorite veggies.