Fresh, simple, and satisfying, this Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is the kind of meal you can throw together any night of the week—and still feel good about serving. Ground beef is browned with onions, garlic, and spices, then combined with tender zucchini slices and a touch of tomato for a low-carb, high-flavor skillet dish. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and perfect for when you need dinner on the table in 25 minutes or less.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful.
Low-carb and naturally gluten-free.
One-skillet = less mess, less stress.
Great for using up extra zucchini.
Perfect as-is or served over rice, pasta, or cauliflower mash.
Ingredients for Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Zucchini: Fresh and vibrant, zucchini adds a lovely texture and a boost of nutrients. Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the skillet. Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use pre-minced if you’re in a pinch.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes adds moisture and acidity. Choose a brand without added sugars for a healthier choice.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs enhances the dish with classic Italian flavors. Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these spices elevate the overall taste. Adjust to your preference.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds healthy fats and a nice flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil if desired.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (optional): For those who love cheesy goodness, this is a delightful addition. It melts beautifully on top!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet. It’s straightforward and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onions. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Stir it in and let it cook for an additional minute. Garlic is essential here; it adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. Just be careful not to let it burn, as that can turn your dish bitter.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and crumbly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Incorporate Zucchini and Tomatoes
Now, stir in the sliced zucchini and the can of diced tomatoes, juice and all. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender. This step is crucial; it allows the zucchini to soak up all those delicious flavors while becoming perfectly soft.
Step 6: Add Cheese
If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Cover the skillet again and let it melt for about 2-3 minutes. The gooey cheese adds a delightful finish to your Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet!
Tips for Success
Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your liking for the best flavor.
For extra crunch, add bell peppers or spinach along with the zucchini.
Don’t rush the simmering step; it’s key for tender veggies and rich flavors.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Leftovers? This dish reheats beautifully for lunch the next day!
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping veggies.
Measuring Cups: Handy for portioning ingredients, especially cheese.
Variations
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Cheesy Variations: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa complements the skillet perfectly.
Pair with a Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
Enjoy with Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is a delightful addition for sopping up the juices.
Drink Options: A chilled glass of iced tea or a light beer pairs well with this dish.
FAQs about Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
Can I use other vegetables in this skillet? Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. They’ll enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you incorporate the zucchini. It’s an easy way to give your skillet a spicy kick!
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes! You can chop the veggies and brown the beef in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Definitely! This Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I serve with this skillet? This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with garlic bread for a comforting meal!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your busy life. The vibrant colors and rich flavors come together to make a dish that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing. Each bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary meals. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this skillet brings warmth and comfort to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
A quick and delicious Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the sliced zucchini, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or fresh basil into the skillet.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
