Creamy Green Beans and Ground Beef Skillet
Description:
This hearty, one-pan meal combines savory ground beef, crisp-tender green beans, and a rich, creamy sauce for a comforting dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe uses everyday ingredients and can be customized for keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80–85% lean)
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
12 oz (340g) green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
¼ cup beef broth or water (optional, to thin sauce if needed)
Time Estimate:
Step Time
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20–25 mins
Total Time 30–35 mins
Instructions:
Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the ground beef:
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned (6–8 minutes).
Drain excess grease if needed.
Cook green beans:
Stir in the green beans. If using fresh, sauté for 5–7 minutes until bright green and just tender. If using frozen, cook until heated through and tender.
Make it creamy:
Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Add beef broth or water if you want a thinner consistency.
Simmer & serve:
Simmer on low for another 5 minutes to let flavors blend.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~520 kcal
Protein ~28g
Total Fat ~40g
Saturated Fat ~20g
Carbohydrates ~10g
Fiber ~3g
Net Carbs ~7g
Sugar ~4g
Sodium ~450mg
Note: Nutritional values vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this keto-friendly?
Yes! It already is keto-friendly with low net carbs. Just be sure your cream cheese and Parmesan have no added carbs.
Q2: Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely. Frozen green beans work well. No need to thaw—just add and cook until tender.
Q3: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk (for dairy-free), but the sauce will be less rich.
Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Make it up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q5: What can I serve this with?
Great on its own or served over:
Cauliflower rice (for low-carb)
Mashed potatoes
Egg
noodles
Rice or quino