Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

The Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients into one easy, flavorful meal. This recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also packs a punch of nutrition with ground beef, zucchini, and sweet potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this skillet dish will become a family favorite in no time.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to make this Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet. First, it’s a one-pan meal that saves on both cooking and clean-up time. The combination of beef and veggies means you’re getting a balanced meal filled with protein and vitamins. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add more veggies or even different seasonings to suit your taste. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for your weekly meals.

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced small
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and diced sweet potatoes. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until they begin to soften and brown slightly. Cover for quicker cooking, stirring occasionally.

2. Brown the Beef: Move sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add Zucchini: Toss in diced zucchini and stir to combine. Cook for 5–7 more minutes until zucchini is tender and sweet potatoes are fully soft.

5. Optional Cheese Finish: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover until melted, about 1–2 minutes.

6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve hot right out of the skillet.

How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet. You can enjoy it as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with a simple side salad for extra greens. It’s also great with crusty bread if you want something extra to soak up the flavors.

How to Store Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The skillet meal is best eaten within 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Tips to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

• Chop Uniformly: Make sure to chop all your vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Customize: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat in your dish.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with chickpeas or lentils. Also, if you don’t have zucchini, you can use bell peppers or spinach.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I freeze this skillet meal?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked skillet meal in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

Enjoy cooking the Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet and relish the comforting flavors and vibrant colors of this simple yet delicious dish!