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Ground Beef And Zucchini Skillet

A delightful, hearty dish combining ground beef with tender zucchini, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef A common choice for many households.
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced or cubed Low in calories and high in vitamins.
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) With juice.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • optional Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by washing and slicing the zucchinis, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. Having everything prepped will streamline the cooking process.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until fully browned. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Sprinkle in the diced onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sliced or cubed zucchini. Add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Cook for around 5-7 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften.
  4. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, and stir well.
  5. Add dried oregano and smoked paprika to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Before serving, taste your skillet dish. Adjust any seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
  7. Once cooked through and flavorful, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with a bed of rice or quinoa. After mixing in the tomatoes, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes for a cheesy, baked version of this recipe. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.