Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Squash Skillet

Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Squash Skillet is a colorful and hearty one-pan dish that brings together the savory flavor of seasoned beef with the natural sweetness of butternut squash and the freshness of zucchini. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet meal is full of wholesome ingredients, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. The combination of vegetables and beef makes it a well-balanced dish, and everything comes together in one pan for minimal cleanup. It’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Butternut squash, peeled and diced
• Salt and black pepper
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning or dried thyme
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.
3. Add vegetables: Add diced butternut squash and cook for about 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add zucchini and cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Use turkey or chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Include other vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen squash works well—just adjust cooking time slightly.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to avoid excess grease.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, the skin is tender and adds color and nutrients.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with lentils, beans, or plant-based meat alternatives.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be portioned for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I roast the vegetables first?

Yes, roasting adds a caramelized flavor. Roast squash and zucchini at 400°F for 20–25 minutes before adding to the skillet.

What spices go well with this?

In addition to Italian seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, or curry powder can add depth.

How do I prevent soggy zucchini?

Cook it last and avoid over-stirring to keep its texture intact.

Can I add a sauce?

A splash of tomato sauce, balsamic glaze, or even pesto can enhance the dish.

What’s the best way to cut the squash?

Peel and remove seeds, then dice into ½-inch cubes for even cooking.

Conclusion

Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Squash Skillet is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s both comforting and nourishing. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a balanced meal that’s full of texture and color. It’s a great go-to for quick dinners, meal prep, or using up fresh produce in a delicious way.

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