Introduction:

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty one-pan comfort meal packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender sweet potatoes, savory ground beef, and fresh zucchini in a flavorful, well-balanced skillet meal. Easy to prepare and loaded with nutrients, it’s a satisfying option the whole family will love!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, diced

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked, draining excess fat if needed.
Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes and season with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Add the diced zucchini, stirring well. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a wholesome, flavorful dish.

Variations

Protein Swap for a Different Flavor Profile – Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a lighter or plant-based alternative. These substitutions offer a different texture while still absorbing the rich seasoning of the dish.
Make It Spicy for Extra Heat – If you enjoy a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños while cooking the onions and garlic. This will infuse the dish with a warm, zesty kick.

Cheesy Twist for a Creamier Texture – Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. The melted cheese creates a comforting, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the hearty ingredients.

Cooking Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the ground beef while browning.
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
This skillet meal pairs well with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a more filling dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a Hearty Side for Extra Satisfaction – While this dish is filling on its own, serving it alongside brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice can make it even more satisfying, especially if you’re feeding a larger family or looking to stretch leftovers.

Top with a Fried or Poached Egg for a Breakfast Twist – A runny yolk adds richness and enhances the flavors of the dish, making it an excellent high-protein breakfast or brunch option.
Drizzle with a Sauce for Extra Flavor – A light drizzle of balsamic glaze, avocado crema, or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish, adding tanginess or creaminess that complements the ingredients.

Tips

Use Fresh Herbs for a Bright Finish – While dried oregano provides a deep earthy flavor, sprinkling fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving adds a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the beef.

Adjust Seasoning Based on Personal Preference – The smoked paprika gives the dish a subtle smokiness, but if you prefer a more robust flavor, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Meal Prep Friendly for Busy Days – This dish stores well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Prep Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 22g
Sodium: 480mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This skillet meal is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
What’s the best way to keep the zucchini from getting mushy?
To prevent the zucchini from overcooking, add it toward the end and cook uncovered for just 5 minutes. This keeps it tender yet slightly crisp.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but with slight modifications. While ground beef and sweet potatoes freeze well, zucchini can become watery after thawing. If freezing, consider cooking everything except the zucchini, then adding fresh zucchini when reheating.
What other vegetables can I add?
This recipe is versatile! You can toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, one-pan comfort meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors, balanced textures, and versatility, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Author: Avery

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked, draining excess fat if needed.

Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes and season with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Add the diced zucchini, stirring well. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a wholesome, flavorful dish.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the ground beef while browning.
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

This skillet meal pairs well with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a more filling dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6g

Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g

Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g

Fiber: 5g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: ground beef skillet, zucchini and sweet potatoes, easy one-pan meal, healthy dinner, quick ground beef recipe, gluten-free skillet meal, dairy-free dinner, high-protein skillet