Description
This Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned and combined with tender sautéed zucchini, onions, and garlic, then simmered with diced tomatoes, salsa, and a blend of chili spices. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, this dish delivers a delicious balance of savory and mildly spicy Mexican-inspired flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or hot, depending on preference)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook the Zucchini: Add the diced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender and slightly golden on the edges.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with vegetables. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to combine well.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve the skillet dish warm on its own or alongside rice, warm tortillas, or slices of fresh avocado. Enjoy your flavorful Mexican-inspired meal!
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot salsa.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
