This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is the epitome of easy, balanced, and hearty cooking. It combines lean ground beef, tender zucchini, and golden sweet potatoes in one skillet for a meal that hits all the right notes—protein, veggies, and wholesome flavor in a single dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, it suits weeknight dinners, summer grilling leftovers, or even winter comfort food cravings.
This American-inspired skillet was born out of pantry-saving creativity—turning what I had on hand into a satisfying meal. With familiar spices like smoked paprika and oregano, it delivers down-home flavor without fuss. Plus, it’s gluten-free, flexible for one-pan meal prep, and perfect for those looking to combine nutrition with ease of cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet
- One-pan convenience — minimal cleanup
- Balanced & nutritious — protein, healthy carbs, vitamins
- Flavor-packed — seasoned with smoky smoked paprika and oregano
- Season-proof — fresh zucchini shines in summer, sweet potatoes bring warmth in winter
- Family-friendly — serve it solo or with a side salad
Ingredients
Makes 4 generous servings:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tip: Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes, or include bell peppers for extra color.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
Total time: ~30 minutes
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef; cook 5–7 minutes, breaking up lumps, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes
Stir in sweet potato cubes and sprinkle with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover skillet and cook 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Cook Zucchini
Uncover, add zucchini, and cook 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally to soften but retain texture.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Remove skillet from heat, taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm—straight from the pan or portioned over rice, quinoa, or greens.
Tips for Success
- Even cubes cook evenly—cut veggies to similar size.
- Lean the beef to reduce grease; drain if necessary.
- Don’t overcook zucchini: It should stay slightly crisp.
- Bump up spice? Add red pepper flakes or hot paprika.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Prep ahead: Pre-cook sweet potatoes and onions; add beef and veggies on the day.
- Reheat: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain texture.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions (no garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat slowly.
Delicious Variations
- Mexican Twist: Stir in taco seasoning and top with avocado, salsa, or lime.
- Mediterranean: Add chopped tomatoes, olives, and finish with feta before serving.
- Family-style: Top with shredded cheese, cover, and melt before serving.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Swap a zucchini for bell pepper or add mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
- Offer sour cream, hot sauce, or salsa for topping
- Serve with a crunchy green salad or steamed veggies
- Garnish with lime wedges or avocado slices for brightness
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet nails the trifecta of easy cooking: one pan, healthy, and customizable. Whether you’re managing time, picky eaters, or a busy schedule, it answers the call for flavorful, nourishing meals without hassle.
The Goods
Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
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Recipes
- 1 lb ground beef 85% lean recommended
- 2 medium zucchinis diced
- 1 large sweet potato peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Tip: Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes, or include bell peppers for extra color.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- Add ground beef; cook 5–7 minutes, breaking up lumps, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes
- Stir in sweet potato cubes and sprinkle with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover skillet and cook 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Cook Zucchini
- Uncover, add zucchini, and cook 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally to soften but retain texture.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Remove skillet from heat, taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm—straight from the pan or portioned over rice, quinoa, or greens.
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