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Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is my go-to dinner when the day gets away from me but I still want a nutritious meal on the table. This easy skillet brings together golden onions, tender zucchini, colorful peppers, and hearty ground beef for big flavor in very little time. It is all cooked in one pan so cleanup is a breeze and you can have dinner ready in around half an hour. If you love reliable everyday meals that keep the family satisfied, this skillet is about to become a favorite.
The first time I threw this together was on a night I almost ordered takeout but I grabbed what I had and this is now in my regular weeknight rotation My husband requests it whenever we have zucchini on hand
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: choose eighty percent lean for the best balance of flavor and tenderness look for fresh bright red beef with little browning
- Zucchini: provides a tender bite and soaks up all the flavors pick firm medium zucchinis with shiny skin and no soft spots
- Bell pepper: adds color and sweet crunch any color will do pick one with taut skin and no wrinkling
- Garlic: the essential aromatic for depth and savor use fresh cloves for the brightest flavor
- Onion: builds the flavor base go for a yellow or white onion that feels solid and heavy
- Extra virgin olive oil: brings a fruity richness and helps brown the beef and veggies use a good quality oil if you can
- Salt and pepper to taste: these bring all the flavors together use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for the most vibrant flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the vegetables:
- Chop zucchini into half moons dice bell pepper and onion and mince garlic take your time and keep pieces even for even cooking
- Sauté the aromatics:
- In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium and add garlic and onion let them cook for two to three minutes until fragrant and soft but not colored this lays a sweet savory foundation
- Brown the beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet break it up with a spatula and let it brown fully for five to seven minutes until no pink remains and the edges of the beef caramelize this deepens the flavor
- Add the veggies:
- Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini spread them out and let them sauté for five to six minutes until zucchini is tender but not mushy stir just enough to keep everything cooking evenly
- Season and serve:
- Sprinkle with salt pepper and any other favorite spices like Italian herbs or a pinch of chili flakes taste and adjust as needed serve up while still hot either as is or over rice
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Zucchini is my favorite in this dish because it soaks up all the meat and garlic flavors My son always helps chop the veggies and I think that is part of why this has become a favorite family meal for us
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep things moist This dish also freezes well just defrost in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef if you want something lighter You can use a red onion for a sharper bite or even swap in summer squash for the zucchini If you need extra veggies toss in some corn or chopped spinach at the end
Serving Suggestions
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This is excellent served over rice brown or white Or try it with crusty bread to soak up the juices For a low carb night enjoy it scoop style in a bowl with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top sometimes I add a little grated cheese if I feel like treating myself
Cultural Notes
One pan meals like this are popular across many cuisines They are practical for busy schedules and designed to bring together whatever is in the fridge That is why dishes like this become family staples across generations and cultures
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prevent zucchini from getting mushy?
To keep zucchini crisp, sauté it only until tender and avoid overcooking. Add it after browning the beef so it cooks quickly and retains texture.
- → Can other vegetables be used in this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in mushrooms, tomatoes, or spinach for added variety and extra nutrition.
- → Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Prepare the skillet ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat in a pan or microwave for a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner.
- → What’s a good side to serve with this skillet?
Enjoy it with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the savory juices and make it even more filling.
- → Can ground turkey substitute the beef?
Ground turkey works well and keeps the dish lighter. Adjust seasonings as needed to complement the flavor shift.