Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Skillet

🥘 Recipe Description:

This Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Skillet is a wholesome, hearty, and one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy ground beef is sautéed with tender zucchini and naturally sweet butternut squash, then seasoned with herbs and spices for a comforting yet light dish. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients — and can be served as-is or with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

🍽️ Servings:

4–6 servings
(Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.)

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

📝 Ingredients for Ground Beef, Zucchini & Butternut Skillet

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean, 85–90%)

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled & diced into ½-inch cubes

• 2 medium zucchini, chopped

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

• ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• ¼ cup water or broth (for deglazing)

• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or grated Parmesan

🔪 Instructions:

1. Prep Ingredients:

   • Dice butternut squash and zucchini into small cubes for even cooking.

   • Mince garlic and onion.

2. Cook the Butternut Squash:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.

   • Sauté butternut squash for 7–9 minutes until slightly golden and tender. Stir occasionally.

   • Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Beef:

   • In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp oil.

   • Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

   • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

   • Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

4. Season & Combine:

   • Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

   • Add ¼ cup water/broth to deglaze the pan and stir well.

5. Add Zucchini & Squash:

   • Return cooked butternut squash and add zucchini.

   • Stir everything together and cover.

   • Simmer for 7–10 minutes on medium-low until zucchini is tender but not mushy.

6. Finish & Serve:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning.

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

   • Serve warm.

📌 Tips & Notes:

• Zucchini cooks quickly—don’t overcook or it’ll become mushy.

• You can use pre-cut squash to save time.

• Make it spicy by increasing red pepper flakes or adding chili powder.

• Want it lower-carb? Skip the tomato paste and use a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for flavor.

• Add cooked rice or quinoa to the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.

• This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🍴 Serving Suggestions:

• Over rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes

• With crusty bread or pita

• Alongside a green salad or steamed greens

💪 Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx. for 6 servings):

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on beef fat %, exact quantities, and optional garnishes.

🌟 Health Benefits:

• High-protein meal to support muscle repair and satiety.

• Rich in fiber from vegetables — promotes digestion.

• Butternut squash is high in vitamin A, which supports vision and immunity.

• Zucchini is low-calorie and hydrates the body.

• Ideal for low-carb and gluten-free diets.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A):

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. You may need to add a little more oil for moisture.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

A: Definitely. Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Q: What herbs go well in this recipe?

A: Thyme, oregano, rosemary, or an Italian seasoning blend all complement the flavors.

Q: Is this meal good for meal prep?

A: Absolutely! It reheats well and flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.