There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal that brings together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a vibrant, colorful dish perfect for any time of day, balancing savory beef with naturally sweet and tender vegetables.

Whether you’re hurriedly putting together dinner or craving a nourishing brunch, this skillet delivers heartiness and freshness in every bite. The blend of zucchini’s mild crunch and sweet potato’s creamy texture creates a comforting contrast you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef: Lean 85% or 90% ground beef for rich flavor and healthy protein in your skillet.
• Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchini sliced to add a crisp texture and mild earthiness.
• Sweet Potato: Peeled and diced sweet potato contributes natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.
• Onion: Chopped yellow onion provides a savory base that caramelizes beautifully.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds an aromatic depth and slight pungency.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil for sautéing ingredients and enriching flavor.
• Ground Cumin: Warm, earthy spice that enhances the beef and vegetable medley.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and a subtle warmth to the skillet.
• Salt: Enhances natural flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a mild heat and complexity.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley for a bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes, then dice them into small cubes to ensure even cooking. Slice the zucchini into half-moons for quick sautéing, and finely chop the onion and garlic. Properly prepping the vegetables helps achieve balanced textures and flavors in the final skillet.

Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes, allowing the beef to develop a rich flavor through caramelization. Drain excess fat if needed to keep the dish light.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning. This step builds the flavor base for the dish.

Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices

Mix in the diced sweet potatoes along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything in the spices, then cover the pan and reduce heat to medium-low. Cooking gently in this way helps the sweet potatoes become tender while infusing the beef mixture with warmth and earthiness.

Incorporate Zucchini

Once the sweet potatoes begin to soften, add the zucchini slices to the skillet. Cook uncovered over medium heat for another 5–7 minutes until zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp. This timing allows the vegetables to maintain their textural contrast.

Finish and Garnish

Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal note. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain texture. For longer storage, freeze portions and thaw overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet pairs wonderfully with a side of mixed greens or a light cucumber salad to add brightness. For a heartier meal, serve with warm crusty bread or a scoop of cooked quinoa or rice to soak up the flavorful juices.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this skillet?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work well and complement the flavors beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be portioned for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.

How long does it take to cook sweet potatoes thoroughly?

Diced small, sweet potatoes typically take around 10–12 minutes to become tender when cooked covered on medium-low heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for protein.

What can I serve alongside this skillet?

Serve with fresh salads, whole grain bread, or rice for a complete and balanced meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze cooked portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Lana

A hearty skillet dish combining savory ground beef with fresh zucchini and sweet potatoes, perfect for a balanced and flavorful meal any day of the week.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large skillet preferably non-stick
• 1 spatula for stirring and breaking up beef

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis diced
• 1 large sweet potato peeled and diced
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
• Drain excess fat if necessary, then add chopped onion and minced garlic.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions soften.
• Add diced sweet potatoes, cover skillet, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add diced zucchini and smoked paprika if using, season with salt and pepper.
• Cook uncovered for another 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
• Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

Notes

• Use fresh vegetables for better texture.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.