This Easy Zucchini Beef Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines ground beef with fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and aromatic spices for a hearty and satisfying dish. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a go-to recipe when you need a flavorful meal in a hurry. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips for creating a tasty and hassle-free skillet dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it off.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
Step 3: Add Zucchini and Spices
- Stir in the diced zucchini, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the zucchini starts to soften.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional) and Serve
- If you’re using shredded mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the zucchini and beef mixture.
- Cover the skillet again and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become gooey.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- If desired, garnish your Easy Zucchini Beef Skillet with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve the skillet meal hot, straight from the pan.
Pro Tips for a Delicious Zucchini Beef Skillet:
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Overcook Zucchini: Zucchini can become mushy if overcooked. It should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, you can always add more cheese for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Serve with a Side: This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cooked rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
This Easy Zucchini Beef Skillet is a simple and flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for busy nights. With a combination of ground beef, fresh zucchini, and aromatic spices, it’s a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s ready in a flash, making it ideal for those times when you want something delicious and convenient. Enjoy the wonderful aroma and heartwarming flavors of this comforting dish!
