Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe: A Hearty, Healthy One-Pan Wonder

If you’re looking for a satisfying, nutritious meal that comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients, this Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect choice. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and bold flavor, this one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Whether you’re following a gluten-free, paleo, or whole-foods lifestyle—or just looking to add more veggies to your plate—this skillet checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Simplicity – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

• Nutritious and Filling – Balanced with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.

• Customizable – Easily add your favorite spices or extra veggies.

• Meal-Prep Friendly – Keeps well and reheats beautifully.

• Family Approved – Even picky eaters will enjoy this savory mix.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra-lean)

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced

• 1 zucchini, sliced or chopped

• ½ onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)

• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

How to Make It – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and slightly brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Zucchini

Stir in the minced garlic and sliced zucchini. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender but still has a bit of bite.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Return the sweet potatoes to the skillet. Season everything with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder if using. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform, small cubes for faster and even cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—use a large pan or sauté in batches if needed.

• For extra flavor, use smoked paprika or add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.

• Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

• Make it a full meal by topping with a fried egg or serving with avocado slices.

Variations to Try

• Turkey or Chicken – Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.

• Add Greens – Stir in baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.

• Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

• Herb Boost – Mix in thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous kick.

• Tex-Mex Style – Add black beans, corn, cumin, and top with salsa or sour cream.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

• Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or use cooked lentils or black beans.

2. Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
Not necessarily—just wash them well if keeping the skin on for added fiber.

3. What type of ground beef should I use?
Lean (90/10) or extra-lean ground beef works best to reduce grease in the skillet.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli all make great additions.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spices to be sure.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a wholesome, comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a weekend brunch base, this one-pan wonder is flexible, filling, and undeniably delicious.

Give it a try and enjoy a healthy, hearty meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple!