Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

If you’re craving a meal that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and oh-so-satisfying, then you’ve come to the right place! This Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with spices, veggies, and lean beef. It’s comforting, wholesome, and can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a quick meal for busy days. The tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and flavorful Mexican seasonings create the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

Here’s why this recipe is an absolute game-changer:

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, this recipe comes together in no time—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen.
• Packed with Flavor: Ground beef, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and more come together in a perfectly spiced skillet. The zucchini soaks up all those flavors, making every bite a savory delight.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with veggies, this dish is a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients without sacrificing any taste. Zucchini is light yet filling, and the ground beef adds the protein you need for a balanced meal.
• Versatile: This dish is super customizable! You can throw in some black beans, corn, or even a handful of cheese to make it your own. Want to spice it up? Add a dash of hot sauce or fresh jalapeños for some heat!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Not only is it fast, but it’s also great for leftovers. Make a big batch and have lunch ready for the next day!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet:

• Ground Beef: The heart of the dish, providing savory, hearty protein. You can use lean ground beef or swap for ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Zucchini: Tender and slightly sweet, zucchini soaks up all the delicious seasonings and balances out the richness of the beef.
• Garlic: For a flavor-packed base. Fresh garlic adds a touch of warmth and depth to the dish.
• Onion: Sweet and savory, the onion brings in that perfect balance of flavor.
• Chili Powder: Adds that smoky, slightly spicy flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
• Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin really enhances the Mexican flavors in the skillet.
• Tomato Paste: For a little richness and depth in flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy and tangy, they provide a juicy base to bring everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, because no dish is complete without the right amount of seasoning!
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies and beef.
• Fresh Cilantro: Optional for garnish, but it adds a fresh pop and a burst of flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant. This is where all the magic begins!

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the spices toast for about a minute. This step really brings out the full depth of flavor in your dish.

Step 4: Stir in the Zucchini and Tomato Paste

Add the diced zucchini and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the zucchini with the spices and beef. The tomato paste will thicken up the dish and help create a rich, savory base.

Step 5: Add the Diced Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and give everything a good stir. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot. It’s ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 40% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

This dish is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Tortillas: Warm up some flour or corn tortillas to scoop up the skillet mix and make a delicious wrap.
• Avocado or Guacamole: The cool, creamy texture of avocado or guacamole complements the spiced beef perfectly.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory flavors.

Additional Tips

• Make it Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce if you want to kick up the heat!
• Add Beans: Black beans or pinto beans are a great addition for more fiber and texture. Just add them in when you add the tomatoes.
• Make it Cheesy: Top the skillet with shredded cheese and broil it for a couple of minutes to make a cheesy, bubbly topping.
• Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe and is a leaner option.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian version.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance, and the dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q5: What can I serve this with?
A5: It pairs well with rice, tortillas, avocado, and a side of beans. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a fresh contrast.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A6: Definitely! Bell peppers, corn, or even spinach would be fantastic additions to this skillet.

Q7: Can I use zucchini noodles instead of diced zucchini?
A7: You can, but note that zucchini noodles will cook quicker and release more moisture, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A8: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be mindful of any sides or toppings you choose.

Q9: Can I use a different type of meat?
A9: Yes! Ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative would work well in this recipe.

Q10: Can I make this dish spicier?
A10: Of course! Add some chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to really bring the heat.

Conclusion

This Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a flavor-packed dish that’s quick, easy, and versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Wholesome, delicious, and full of bold flavors, it’s the perfect comfort food with a Mexican twist!

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