Description
This Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining lean ground beef, tender zucchini, and classic Mexican spices, it’s a comforting dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Optional Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook the Zucchini: Add the diced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and slightly golden.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top if using, then cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm on its own or alongside rice, tortillas, or avocado slices for a complete meal.
Notes
- Drain the fat from the cooked ground beef to reduce grease and make the dish lighter.
- Use mild or hot salsa based on your spice preference.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Adding the cheese is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free meal.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the salsa and spices have no gluten-containing additives.
- Fresh herbs added at the end brighten the dish and add extra flavor.
