Looking for a quick and nutritious dinner idea? This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a wholesome one-pan meal packed with protein, veggies, and incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, satisfying, and family-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup!
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Great for dietary needs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and reheats perfectly.
- Nutrient-Packed: Full of fiber, vitamins, and protein.
Whether you’re following a clean eating plan or just want to add more whole foods to your meals, this recipe checks every box.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
You only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make It – Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add ground beef and diced onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Zucchini and Garlic
Stir in chopped zucchini and minced garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until zucchini is tender but not mushy.
4. Combine and Season
Return sweet potatoes to the skillet. Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and coated in seasoning.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot!
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder.
- Cheesy option: Top with shredded cheese and melt under the broiler.
- Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
- Swap the meat: Ground turkey or chicken works great too.
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~370
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 5g
(Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on exact measurements and ingredients used.)
FAQs – Ground Beef Sweet Potato Zucchini Skillet
Can I meal prep this skillet recipe?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
When to Serve This Skillet Meal
This recipe is ideal for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Meal prep lunches
- Family meals
- Post-workout fuel
It’s hearty without being heavy and packs in everything your body needs in one satisfying bowl.
Print
Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet – A One-Pan Healthy Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A healthy, one-pan skillet dinner featuring ground beef, zucchini, and sweet potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped zucchini and garlic to the beef. Cook for 4–5 minutes until zucchini is tender.
4. Return sweet potatoes to the skillet. Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, top with shredded cheese or a fried egg.
This dish is great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 65mg