Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet meal offers the perfect balance of savory, earthy, and slightly sweet flavors. Ground beef provides protein, while sweet potatoes add a hearty texture and natural sweetness. Zucchini brings a subtle crunch and freshness, making this dish light yet filling. The combination of smoky paprika and oregano adds depth of flavor, and the whole meal cooks in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. It’s an easy, nutritious, and tasty option for busy nights!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Stir in the sweet potato cubes and season with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Add the diced zucchini to the skillet, cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to soften while maintaining a slight crunch.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add Extra Veggies: You can throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes for more variety and nutrients.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet to give it a spicy kick.
Make It Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb diet, swap out the sweet potatoes for cauliflower or another low-carb vegetable.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, and then cook it when you’re ready to eat. The cooked dish can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe with frozen zucchini?

Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe, but if you use frozen zucchini, be sure to drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are tender?

The sweet potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. They should be soft but still hold their shape.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, adding some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, during the last few minutes of cooking can add extra flavor and creaminess.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or lentils, for a vegetarian version.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To make this dish spicier, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the skillet.

Can I use other types of potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes or even butternut squash can be substituted for sweet potatoes, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

Can I use olive oil spray instead of regular olive oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil spray to reduce the amount of oil used, but be sure to coat the skillet well so the ingredients don’t stick.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful one-pan meal that everyone will love. With a balance of protein, vegetables, and spices, it’s both filling and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this skillet recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy!