Why Make This Recipe
Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a delicious and healthy one-pan meal. It combines protein from the ground beef with the nutrients of zucchini and sweet potatoes. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners because it cooks quickly and requires minimal cleanup. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and spices!
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme (optional)
Directions
- Dice the sweet potatoes into small, even pieces for quick cooking. Chop the zucchini and onion similarly and mince the garlic to distribute its flavor evenly throughout the dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain excess fat if needed to keep the dish light.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, stirring often until softened and fragrant. Toss in the sweet potatoes and cook for about 8–10 minutes until they begin to become tender.
- Mix in the zucchini pieces along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Continue cooking for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender yet vibrant and the sweet potatoes are fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top if desired, then serve hot directly from the skillet.
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Serve the Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet hot right from the pan. It pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread. If you want, add a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
To store leftovers, let the skillet cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, ensuring to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
- For quicker cooking, dice the sweet potatoes into smaller pieces.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use any other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or carrots.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini and sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly longer.