This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, nutritious dish that marries savory flavors with fresh vegetables. The sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the robust ground beef, while zucchini brings lightness and texture. It’s a colorful one-pan meal that’s comforting and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
The skillet is packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week. The combination of tender ground beef, tender-crisp zucchini, and naturally sweet sweet potatoes creates a satisfying harmony that will leave you wanting more.
- One-pan meal saves time and reduces cleanup.
- Balanced flavors from savory beef, sweet potatoes, and fresh zucchini.
- Nutritious and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Lean ground beef provides protein and a rich, savory base for the skillet.
- Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds mild flavor, moisture, and a tender crunch to the dish.
- Sweet potatoes: Diced sweet potatoes contribute natural sweetness and hearty texture.
- Onion: Chopped onion delivers aromatic depth to enhance all the flavors.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant and savory punch to the skillet.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the beef, offering richness.
- Tomato paste: Boosts umami flavor and helps create a lightly saucy consistency.
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice note that complements the beef beautifully.
- Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika enhances the smoky depth of the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all ingredients.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley for bright, fresh garnish and added color.
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
-
Wash and dice the zucchini and sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Preparing the vegetables evenly ensures they cook uniformly and combine well in the skillet.
- Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Aromatics
-
In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation for the dish.
- Brown the Ground Beef
-
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and no longer pink. Breaking it up with a spatula helps it cook evenly and mix well with the vegetables later.
- Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices
-
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. This layers in warmth and sweetness, allowing the sweet potatoes to absorb the spices as they cook.
- Cook Until Sweet Potatoes Soften
-
Cover and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender but hold their shape. This ensures they’re perfectly cooked without becoming mushy.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Tomato Paste
-
Add the zucchini and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Continue cooking just until zucchini softens slightly, preserving its crisp texture and freshness.
- Final Seasoning and Garnish
-
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This finishing step adds color and a bright herbal note to the skillet.
- For even cooking, cut all vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Covering the skillet while cooking sweet potatoes helps them steam and soften faster.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option if preferred.
Storage Tips
This skillet dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot on its own as a complete meal or alongside a fresh green salad. For added texture, top with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some shredded cheese just before serving.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and less sticking.
- Brown the beef well for deeper flavor through caramelization.
- Don’t overcook the zucchini to maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch.
FAQs
- Can I use other vegetables in this skillet?
-
Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be great additions or replacements depending on your preference.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
-
Absolutely. It reheats well and stays flavorful, making it perfect for preparing lunches or dinners in advance.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
-
Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients naturally, so it’s safe for a gluten-free diet.
- How can I make it spicier?
-
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the beef for some heat.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
-
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
-
A crisp green salad or steamed green beans provide a nice balance to the rich skillet flavors.
Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
Equipment
- 1 large skillet for cooking the beef and vegetables
- 1 stirring spoon for mixing ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis diced
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and cubed sweet potato.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika; mix well.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Notes
- For spicier flavor, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Use ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
