Sweet Potato & Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet is a hearty, nutritious one-pan meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and warming spices, this dish delivers comfort and flavor without the fuss. It’s the perfect choice when you want something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s simple, well-balanced, and uses wholesome ingredients. It comes together in just one pan, saving on cleanup, and offers a flavorful blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes. With lean beef, sweet potatoes, and zucchini, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Lean ground beef
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Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
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Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
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Onion, finely chopped
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Olive oil
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Smoked paprika
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Ground cumin
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Salt and pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Brown the beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Push the beef to one side of the skillet. -
Add garlic and onion:
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the open side of the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant, then mix together with the beef. -
Sauté the sweet potatoes:
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and ground cumin. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes begin to soften. -
Add zucchini:
Stir in the zucchini slices and continue to cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through. -
Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes
Variations
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Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
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Add a handful of spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra greens.
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Stir in a pinch of chili flakes for added heat.
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Use butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes for a seasonal twist.
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Top with shredded cheese or a fried egg for a richer meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
This dish also freezes well—cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, but for best texture, thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet.
What’s the best way to dice sweet potatoes evenly?
Use a sharp knife to cut into ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chop all vegetables and store them in the fridge a day ahead for a quicker weeknight dinner.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it contains no gluten-based ingredients, but always check labels if using store-bought spices or seasonings.
What can I serve with this skillet?
It’s complete on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad, quinoa, or warm flatbread.
How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?
Add zucchini near the end of cooking and avoid over-stirring to retain some bite.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
What type of skillet should I use?
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan works best for even cooking.
How spicy is the dish?
It’s mild as written. Adjust spice levels by adding crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your skillet is large enough or cook in batches for best results.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato & Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet is a go-to recipe for those seeking a nutritious, easy, and delicious dinner. With its one-pan convenience, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a perfect choice for families, meal prep, or anyone wanting a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Enjoy this balanced dish straight from the skillet to the table.
Print
Sweet Potato & Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sweet Potato & Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, healthy, and delicious one-pan dinner. Loaded with lean beef, tender sweet potatoes, and fresh zucchini, it’s the perfect weeknight meal packed with flavor and nutrients—ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
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1 lb lean ground beef
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2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
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Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
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Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. Add diced sweet potatoes to the other side and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 8–10 minutes).
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Mix sweet potatoes with the beef and add zucchini. Cook for an additional 5–6 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp.
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Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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This dish stores well and makes great leftovers or meal prep.
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Try ground turkey or chicken as a variation.
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