Why Make This Recipe
This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s a lovely one-pan meal that brings together tender sweet potatoes, fresh zucchini, and savory ground beef, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of smoked paprika and oregano adds a delightful depth, and you can feel good about serving a wholesome dish to your family.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the sweet potato cubes and season with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add the diced zucchini to the skillet, cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to soften while maintaining a slight crunch.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Serve this delicious skillet dish warm right out of the pan! It’s perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A dollop of yogurt on top can add a creamy touch, too!
How to Store Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store this dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
- Use a combination of different colored zucchinis for a beautiful presentation.
- Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more variety.
- Adjust the spices to your liking; a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Variation
For a different twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat and adding more veggies or some beans for protein.
FAQs
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potato cubes. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet for even cooking.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this skillet?
A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just follow the cooking steps when you’re ready to eat.
Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink.
- Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the sweet potato cubes and season with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add the diced zucchini to the skillet, cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to soften while maintaining a slight crunch.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.