Description
This one-pan Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines lean ground beef with tender zucchini and zesty Mexican spices for a satisfying dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced and quartered
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces Mexican-style diced tomatoes with green chilis (or salsa)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Beef: In a large skillet (cast iron recommended) over medium heat, sauté the ground beef with minced garlic, salt, and pepper until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to break up the beef as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Spices & Tomatoes: Stir in the Mexican-style diced tomatoes with green chilis (or salsa), chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure all spices are well incorporated.
Step 3: Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Zucchini: Gently stir in the sliced and quartered zucchini pieces.
Step 5: Cook Zucchini: Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still slightly firm. Avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a winner because it’s:
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Packed with protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the zucchini.
- Flavorful: The combination of Mexican spices creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as is for a low-carb meal.
- Serve over rice or quinoa.
- Use as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
- Serve with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.
Tips:
- Cast Iron Skillet: Using a cast-iron skillet ensures even heat distribution and better searing of the ground beef.
- Prevent Watery Zucchini: To prevent watery zucchini, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes before cooking. This draws out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry before adding to the skillet.
- Cheese Topping: Add shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend) during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty, cheesy topping.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or corn to the skillet.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
- Lean Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef (85% or higher) helps reduce the amount of fat in the dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500-700mg per serving
Conclusion:
The Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a fantastic option for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple for any home cook. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and toppings to create your perfect skillet dish!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It’s a leaner alternative and works just as well in this recipe.
- What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?
- Feel free to add bell peppers (any color), onions, mushrooms, corn, or even spinach. Add them along with the zucchini for the best results.
- How can I make this recipe spicier?
- Increase the amount of chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter salsa.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- What kind of cheese goes well with this dish?
- Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or even crumbled queso fresco all work well as toppings for this skillet.
