A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring ground beef and tender zucchini, perfect for busy weeknights. This flavorful skillet dish is packed with vegetables and simple seasonings.
Author:Lisa
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:One-Pan Skillet
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Heat the Skillet: Drizzle olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Incorporate Zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt for an extra indulgent touch.
Garnish: Top the skillet with fresh basil leaves before serving for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for more flavor.
Cover the skillet while simmering to retain moisture.
Chop vegetables in advance for faster preparation.
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein.
For a Mediterranean twist, add Kalamata olives and feta cheese.
For a Mexican style, use taco seasoning and serve with tortillas.
Add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn.
Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
Serve with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.