Description
This Beef & Zucchini Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring ground beef sautéed with fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying dish that can be topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings and Garnish
- Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté the veggies: Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add olive oil to the empty side and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add zucchini and tomatoes: Stir the diced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes into the beef mixture. Sprinkle dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and the tomatoes have softened to create a flavorful blend.
- Finish and serve: Taste the skillet contents and adjust seasoning as needed. Optionally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top and allow it to melt before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- To reduce fat, drain excess grease after cooking the beef.
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes in season for best flavor, or canned diced tomatoes as a convenient alternative.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice or pasta for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
