On a particularly hectic weeknight, I found myself staring into the fridge, desperate for a quick yet satisfying meal. That’s when I stumbled upon the perfect solution: a Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet! The aroma of sizzling beef mixed with garlic and soy sauce filled my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. This savory dish comes together in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a family-friendly dinner without the fuss of lengthy preparations.
What I love most about this meal is its versatility. You can easily switch out ground beef for turkey or chicken and use whatever green beans you have on hand—fresh or frozen. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also packed with nutrition, making dinner a guilt-free pleasure. So, whether you’re looking to spice things up or keep it simple, this skillet recipe will become your go-to for quick weeknight meals. Let’s dive in and make dinner delightful again!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve!
Budget-Friendly: This meal uses economical ingredients, making it easy on the wallet.
Versatile: Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or whatever green beans you have, fresh or frozen.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory beef, aromatic garlic, and a hint of soy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish!
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for the whole family—satisfying for adults and kid-approved!
Explore more versatile dishes in our quick dinner recipes section!
Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet Ingredients
For the Skillet
• Ground Beef – Your main protein source that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
• Green Beans – Vital for crunch and nutrition; fresh or frozen will work beautifully.
• Onion – Adds a sweet and savory base to your flavorful creation; opt for yellow or sweet onions.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances flavor remarkably compared to powdered; always go for fresh when you can!
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – This provides umami and seasoning—low-sodium options can make it even healthier.
• Honey/Sugar – Balances the savory profile of the dish; you can use keto-friendly sweeteners for a low-carb alternative.
• Cornstarch – Useful for thickening the sauce; xanthan gum is a great gluten-free replacement if preferred.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Level up the flavor with a mild heat; adjust to your spice tolerance.
This Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet is not just a meal; it’s your ticket to a satisfying dinner without the fuss!
How to Make Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet
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Chop Aromatics: Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. This will create a flavorful base for your dish, so take a moment to enjoy the vibrant smells!
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Brown Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the excess fat for a cleaner taste.
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Sauté Garlic and Spices: To the skillet with the beef, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, infusing the beef with rich flavors!
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Add Green Beans: Toss in the trimmed green beans and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, cooking until they are tender-crisp and beautifully vibrant in color.
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Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce and honey or sugar. Pour this delectable mixture into the skillet, coating everything evenly for a savory kiss of flavor!
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Thicken Sauce: If you desire a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
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Season and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot. You’ve just created a comforting one-pan meal that your family will love!
Optional: Garnish with green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave helps preserve texture and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to save for later, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, you can reheat the Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Airtight Storage: Ensure containers are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and loss of flavor.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet
Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and quality ground beef for the best flavor in your Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet.
Avoid Greasiness: Don’t skip draining excess fat after browning the beef; it prevents a greasy end result and enhances flavor.
Perfect Texture: If using frozen green beans, stir-fry them straight from the freezer to maintain some crunch, as thawing can make them mushy.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning while cooking, especially with salt and red pepper flakes, to tailor the dish perfectly to your family’s taste.
Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost nutrition and create a colorful meal!
Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this dish and make it uniquely yours!
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for turkey to create a leaner, lighter dish that’s just as delicious.
- Frozen Green Beans: No fresh beans? Use frozen instead and toss them straight into the skillet for an easy shortcut!
- Soy Sauce Substitute: Use tamari for a gluten-free option, maintaining that rich umami flavor.
- Keto Sweetener: Replace honey or sugar with erythritol or stevia for a low-carb version without sacrificing sweetness.
- Heat It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that’ll excite your taste buds!
- Vegetable Medley: Mix in bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to enhance nutrition and add vibrant colors to your skillet. These additional veggies will not only brighten the dish but also add different textures.
- Zucchini Noodles: Serve the dish over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a fantastic low-carb meal that feels indulgent.
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet?
This delightful one-pan meal is just the beginning of a satisfying dinner experience.
- Fluffy Rice: The perfect base for soaking up the savory sauce; a classic choice for a hearty meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and warm, it pairs beautifully with the savory and slightly tangy flavors, enhancing every bite.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that adds a light texture while remaining a blank canvas for the flavorful beef.
- Sautéed Zucchini: Tender zucchini rounds bring a fresh, crisp element that balances the dish’s richness.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side filled with crunchy vegetables and a light vinaigrette to complement the hearty skillet.
- Steamed Broccoli: Its vibrant color and nutritious crunch complement the beef and beans while adding a pop of healthfulness.
- Crisp White Wine: Pair this savory meal with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich dessert, creating a lovely contrast to the savory main course.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet components can be prepped ahead, making dinner a breeze for busy weeknights! You can chop the onion and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic and spices, add in the green beans, and reheat the pre-cooked beef. This method saves you time and ensures that your meal remains just as flavorful and satisfying!
Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best green beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing green beans, look for those that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Fresh green beans should snap easily when bent; avoid any that look dull, limp, or have dark spots all over. If you’re opting for frozen, ensure they are bright green and free from ice crystals.
How should I store leftovers of the Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. This way, the dish retains its delicious flavors and textures!
Can I freeze my Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this skillet meal! To do so, let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
What do I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find that your sauce is too thin, no worries! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into your dish and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to your liking. It’s as simple as that!
Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Very much so! The Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet can be adapted for various dietary preferences. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and use low-sodium soy sauce to cater to lower sodium diets. Additionally, for keto diets, replace honey or sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener and use cornstarch cautiously or substitute with xanthan gum.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor variety. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked to your preferred level of tenderness. Enjoy experimenting!
Savor the Night with Ground Beef and Green Bean Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic to create a flavorful base.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain the excess fat, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add trimmed green beans and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce and honey or sugar, then pour into the skillet.
- For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water, stir into the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.