Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

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Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Description:

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s hearty, nutritious, and bursting with flavor! Featuring lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and fresh zucchini, it’s seasoned perfectly with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice. This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes and makes a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp ground cumin

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
    In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Remove and set aside.

  2. Brown the Beef:
    Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes. Then add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

  3. Add Vegetables:
    Stir in bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, until veggies start to soften.

  4. Combine and Season:
    Add the cooked sweet potatoes back to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, oregano, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes so flavors meld.

  5. Optional Topping:
    Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 1–2 minutes.

  6. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

Notes:

  • You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.

  • Use any firm veggie mix — mushrooms, carrots, or corn work great.

  • For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

  • Sweet potatoes can be pre-steamed to reduce skillet cooking time.

Tips:

  • Cut all vegetables into even sizes for uniform cooking.

  • If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño.

  • Leftovers reheat beautifully — just store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Great for meal prep: make ahead and portion for lunches!

Servings:

4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 340 kcal

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 22 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Saturated Fat: 6 g

  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

  • Sodium: 480 mg

  • Sugars: 7 g

Health Benefits:

  • High Protein: Ground beef provides muscle-building protein.

  • Rich in Fiber & Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene and fiber.

  • Low-Carb Veggies: Zucchini adds volume and nutrients without excess calories.

  • Heart-Friendly Fats: Olive oil supports heart health.

  • Balanced Nutrition: Combines complex carbs, lean protein, and healthy fats in one pan.

Q & A:

Q1: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A1: Yes! White or red potatoes can be used — just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q2: How can I make it vegetarian?
A2: Replace ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based crumbles for a hearty vegetarian version.

Q3: Can I freeze this meal?
A3: Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

Q4: What can I serve this with?
A4: It’s perfect on its own, or you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or a green salad.

Q5: Can I add cheese alternatives?
A5: Definitely! Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly boost of flavor.

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