Description
This Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal that is quick and easy to prepare. With a delicious blend of spices, vegetables, and protein, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Vegetables: Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in zucchini and red bell pepper and sauté until vegetables begin to soften.
- Season and Simmer: Add diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors are blended.
- Finish and Serve: If using, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and cover for 2 minutes until melted. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder.
- This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or avocado toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg