Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner option that combines affordable, easy-to-find ingredients. This Mexican-inspired dish brings together lean ground beef, fresh zucchini, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked in a single skillet. High in protein and fiber, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and offers flexibility for various dietary preferences. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a family favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Avocado oil
Sweet potato, peeled and diced
Zucchini, diced
Red bell pepper, diced
Red onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
Lean ground beef
Black beans, drained and rinsed
Fire-roasted tomatoes
Frozen corn
Taco seasoning
Mexican-style or Monterey Jack shredded cheese blend
Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, sliced green onions

Directions

Sauté the Sweet Potatoes: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced sweet potato and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic into the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Cook the Ground Beef: Move the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, add the lean ground beef. Cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, approximately 7-9 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes (with their juice), frozen corn, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Melt Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican-style cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid, remove from heat, and allow it to sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Dietary Fiber: 7 g
Total Sugars: 6 g
Total Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 800 mg
Potassium: 950 mg
Vitamin A: 120% DV
Vitamin C: 60% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 25% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet is destined to become a staple in your meal rotation. Here are a few standout features:

Quick and Easy: This recipe is ideal for those hectic evenings when time is limited. From prep to table, it takes under 30 minutes.
One-Skillet Convenience: As a one-pot dish, it minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The entire meal is cooked in a single skillet, making it a stress-free cooking experience.
Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this dish offers a balanced and health-conscious meal without compromising on flavor.
Versatile and Customizable: The recipe is easily adaptable to suit different dietary needs or preferences. You can substitute ingredients, adjust the spice level, or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
Naturally Gluten-Free: This recipe is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, providing a wholesome, satisfying meal without the need for substitutions.
Family-Friendly: The combination of mild spices, hearty vegetables, and melted cheese appeals to even the pickiest eaters.

Key Features of Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet

Flavorful Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is seasoned with taco seasoning to infuse the dish with classic Mexican-inspired flavors.
Fresh, Vibrant Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, zucchini, red bell peppers, and red onions add a delightful mix of textures, flavors, and nutrients to the dish.
Black Beans and Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These pantry staples enhance the dish with protein, fiber, and smoky undertones, making it even more satisfying.
Cheesy Finish: A layer of melted Mexican-style cheese brings the dish together, adding creamy richness and making every bite irresistible.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro and green onions add a pop of color and a refreshing finish to the dish.

Health Benefits

Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet isn’t just a delicious dish; it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a well-rounded, wholesome meal:

High in Protein: Lean ground beef and black beans provide ample protein, which is essential for muscle repair, energy, and satiety.
Rich in Fiber: The sweet potatoes, black beans, and vegetables contribute to the dish’s fiber content, supporting digestion and maintaining fullness.
Loaded with Vitamins: With ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, this dish offers a generous dose of vitamins A and C, which support immunity and skin health.
Low in Saturated Fat: By using lean ground beef and avocado oil, the dish minimizes unhealthy fats while still delivering a satisfying flavor.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet comes out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Cook Sweet Potatoes First: Sweet potatoes take longer to soften, so starting with them ensures they’re perfectly cooked without overcooking the other vegetables.
Use Fresh, Firm Zucchini: Fresh zucchini will hold its shape and provide the best texture in the dish. Avoid overcooking it to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Drain Excess Grease: If your ground beef isn’t lean, drain any excess grease after cooking to keep the dish light and balanced.
Season to Taste: While the taco seasoning provides a great base flavor, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Add more spice with a dash of cayenne pepper or keep it mild for a family-friendly version.
Let the Cheese Melt: Once you’ve sprinkled the cheese on top, let it melt completely before serving for that irresistible gooey finish.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is satisfying on its own, you can enhance the meal with these serving ideas:

Serve with Rice or Tortillas: For a heartier meal, pair the skillet with steamed rice or warm tortillas to create a burrito-style bowl or wrap.
Add a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy flavors of the skillet.
Top with Avocado or Guacamole: For an extra layer of creaminess, garnish with fresh avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole.
Include a Salsa or Hot Sauce: Add a spicy kick with your favorite salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Serve as a Dip: Scoop up the mixture with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or snack.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or extra black beans for a vegetarian version.
Change Up the Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
Use Different Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes to customize the dish.
Add More Heat: If you love spice, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make it Low-Carb: Skip the sweet potatoes and replace the corn with extra zucchini for a low-carb option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep or storing leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze the cooked dish in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a crowd-pleasing dish, or a versatile recipe to adapt to your preferences, this skillet meal checks all the boxes. Its bold Mexican-inspired flavors, colorful presentation, and one-skillet convenience make it a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

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