Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a wholesome, one-pan meal featuring lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, fresh zucchini, and savory seasonings. It’s a nutritious, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights, delivering a balanced combination of protein and vegetables in every bite.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup beef broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing the pan for cooking the vegetables and beef.
- Cook the sweet potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften but are not fully cooked.
- Add onion and ground beef: Stir in the diced onion and lean ground beef. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are translucent.
- Add seasonings and garlic: Mix in the minced garlic along with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add zucchini and broth: Incorporate the diced zucchini and pour in ¼ cup of beef broth to add moisture and help cook the vegetables further.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5–7 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the sweet potatoes are fully cooked through, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish, and serve warm for a hearty, nutritious meal.
Notes
- Add shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep and freezes well for quick future meals.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American