If you’re searching for a vibrant, no-fuss side that brings both comfort and freshness to the table, the Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe is the answer to your dinnertime prayers. Imagine tender baby potatoes turning golden and crisp beside bright green beans, all wrapped up in the savory hug of smoked paprika and aromatic herbs. This one-pan wonder is a celebration of color, flavor, and simplicity, perfect for rounding out any meal—yet substantial enough to stand on its own. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting friends for a casual supper, you’ll fall in love with the way this dish turns humble ingredients into something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines because of its uncomplicated ingredient list—a handful of staple veggies and pantry items that each bring something delightful to the party. Every item here works hard to create the ideal balance of texture, color, and flavor, making the Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
- Baby Potatoes (1 pound, halved): Their creamy centers and golden edges give the skillet its irresistible heartiness.
- Green Beans (8 oz, trimmed): A pop of color and snap, these brighten up every bite with fresh, garden flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and ensures those potatoes get beautifully crisped in the skillet.
- Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Sweetens as it cooks, offering both flavor and a hint of color contrast.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For savoriness and that telltale irresistible aroma no one can ignore.
- Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon, or 1 tablespoon fresh): The earthy herbiness of thyme pairs perfectly with both potatoes and beans.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): This is the secret weapon that lends warmth and a gentle smokiness.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Trust your palate—these basics lift all the other flavors.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): For a fresh, bright finish that keeps the dish feeling lively.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkled on at the end, it’s a simple way to add color and a final herbal zing.
How to Make Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes and Green Beans
Begin by placing the halved baby potatoes into a pot and covering them with cold, salted water. As the water heats and comes to a boil, the salt flavors the potatoes through and through. After 8–10 minutes, when the potatoes are just fork-tender, toss in the green beans for the last two minutes—this keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender instead of limp. Drain everything and set aside; you’re officially on your way to Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe perfection!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Once it shimmers, add your sliced red onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes. You’ll notice the onion softening and starting to sweeten, which lays the foundation for depth of flavor. After this brief sauté, toss in the minced garlic and let it bloom for about 30 seconds—just long enough to become fragrant without burning.
Step 3: Crisp and Season the Veggies
Transfer the drained potatoes and green beans into the skillet. Sprinkle them right away with thyme, smoked paprika, and a healthy dose of salt and black pepper. Cook the mixture for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes develop golden, crispy edges and the beans get a gentle sear. The smoked paprika and thyme infuse everything with warmth, making the Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe deeply savory and mouthwatering.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
Just before removing the skillet from the heat, drizzle in the lemon juice for a splash of freshness that lifts the whole dish. Give everything one final toss to make sure the citrusy tang is distributed. If desired, finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley—its bright green pop makes the finished dish all the more welcoming.
How to Serve Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
For a signature touch, shower your Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe with fresh parsley right before serving. If you want to level things up, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or even some crisp crumbled bacon can add more richness and complexity. A quick grate of lemon zest also works wonders, adding a sunny aroma that ties everything together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish is a superstar next to grilled meats like chicken or steak but also shines as a main when topped with a perfectly poached or fried egg. Serve alongside a light leafy salad, a slice of crusty bread, or simply some roasted tomatoes—the Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe adapts like a dream to whatever’s on your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this recipe into a stunning sharing platter by arranging the potatoes and beans on a rustic board, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges. For brunch, consider nesting the veggies in individual bowls and topping with eggs for a bistro-style meal. You could even pile it into a warm pita with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying handheld lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together even more as they rest—which means your next lunch just got easier and tastier!
Freezing
While this dish can technically be frozen, the texture of the potatoes and green beans may soften a bit upon reheating. If you must freeze, make sure everything is thoroughly cooled, then store in a freezer-safe container. For best results, enjoy fresh or simply refrigerate extras instead.
Reheating
To recapture the skillet’s just-cooked magic, reheat leftovers in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. This encourages the potatoes to crisp up again and helps the green beans retain some of their bite. The microwave will work in a pinch too, but the skillet method delivers the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use large potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Simply cut larger potatoes into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly and quickly. Baby potatoes are lovely for their size and buttery texture, but regular Yukon Gold or red potatoes will work just as well in this Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, the basic Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe is entirely plant-based. Just skip optional garnishes like cheese or bacon to keep it vegan-friendly. It’s a hearty, wholesome choice for any table.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible. Try tossing in bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even a handful of peas for extra color and sweetness. Adjust the cook time as needed to ensure all veggies are perfectly tender.
What protein pairs well with this skillet?
Grilled chicken, steak, or salmon all play beautifully alongside this dish. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a poached egg or top with crispy tofu. The Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe is wonderfully versatile!
Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Prepare the entire recipe, let it cool, and portion it into containers for grab-and-go lunches or easy sides throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes just as satisfying the next day.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve seen how approachable and rewarding the Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe can be, I hope you’re feeling inspired to add it to your weekly rotation. This simple, colorful skillet celebrates the best of humble ingredients and delivers big on flavor—and there’s nothing quite like sharing a dish made with such care. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Potato and Green Bean Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Potato and Green Bean Skillet recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender baby potatoes and fresh green beans sautéed with aromatic seasonings. A versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Baby Potatoes:
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
Green Beans:
- 8 oz green beans, trimmed
Others:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes and Green Beans: Boil halved baby potatoes in salted water for 8–10 minutes. Add green beans for the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Sauté red onion in olive oil for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add Potatoes and Beans: Combine cooked potatoes and green beans in the skillet. Season with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider topping with crumbled bacon or grated Parmesan before serving.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be a vegetarian main topped with a poached egg.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
