Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner. Combining lean ground beef with sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper, it delivers a balanced blend of protein and vegetables seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin. Optional cheddar cheese adds a creamy finish, while fresh parsley garnishes for a fresh touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Spices & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 6–7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onions and sweet potatoes: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add diced onion and sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
- Add garlic and other vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and red bell pepper. Continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Combine beef and seasonings: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine and cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Add cheese and garnish: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet mixture and allow it to melt. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Make this dish dairy-free by omitting the cheddar cheese.
- Serve alongside a fresh side salad or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
