Name: Quick Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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A simple and satisfying low-carb dinner, this Quick Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet brings together seasoned ground beef and tender zucchini in one delicious pan. It’s the kind of dish I turn to when I want something hearty and healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Quick Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

Ingredients

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

1 lb ground beef

2 medium zucchinis, sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

I add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they soften.

Then I add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. I let it brown and cook through, about 6-7 minutes.

Next, I stir in the sliced zucchini along with the oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.

I cook everything together for another 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the flavors meld.

Finally, I taste and adjust the seasonings, garnish with fresh parsley if I want a pop of color, and serve it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, for a total time of 25 minutes. Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to bulk up the veggies.

I swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken when I want a leaner version.

For a cheesy twist, I sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.

A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice heat if I’m in the mood for something spicier.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the skillet on the stove over medium heat until hot, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. If the dish seems a bit dry when reheating, I add a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture.

FAQs

Can I freeze this dish?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish because zucchini tends to become mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

I like pairing it with a simple side salad or some cauliflower rice if I want something extra but still low-carb.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it ahead and reheat when needed. It holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. With no added sugars and a balance of healthy fats and proteins, this dish fits well into a keto diet.

How do I know when the zucchini is cooked just right?

I look for zucchini that’s tender but still has a bit of bite to it. Overcooking can make it mushy, so I keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.

Conclusion

This Quick Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is one of my go-to meals when I want something quick, nutritious, and flavorful. It’s a great way to use fresh summer zucchini and is endlessly adaptable to whatever I have in my kitchen. Whether I’m cooking for myself or feeding my family, this recipe always hits the spot.

Recipe:

Quick Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

A simple and satisfying low-carb dinner that combines seasoned ground beef and tender zucchini in one delicious skillet, perfect for a quick, hearty, and healthy meal.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and cook through, about 6-7 minutes.
Stir in the sliced zucchini along with the oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook everything together for another 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the flavors meld.
Taste and adjust the seasonings, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.