Ground Beef And Zucchini Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Zucchini Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I love making this Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet because it’s quick, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients. This dish has become a weeknight staple in my house, packed with protein and veggies that everyone enjoys. The savory mix of ground beef and tender zucchini comes together in only one pan, making cleanup a breeze. I find that this recipe not only satisfies my family but also allows me to experiment with various spices to create different flavor profiles. It’s a go-to meal that never disappoints.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:01:30.574Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. The key was to cook the beef until it's just browned before adding the zucchini, which keeps it perfectly tender without becoming mushy. I also like to season with garlic and Italian herbs to give it a robust flavor.

After a few tries, I discovered that adding a splash of soy sauce elevates the savory elements beautifully. It’s a simple trick that makes this dish stand out, and now I find myself reaching for my skillet more often than ever!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
Packed with flavor and nutrition from fresh zucchini
One-pan dish means minimal cleanup

Mastering the One-Pan Technique

Cooking in one pan not only simplifies the process but also enhances flavor. The key is to manage heat effectively; start with medium-high to brown the beef and switch to medium when introducing the vegetables. This gradual temperature change allows the veggies to release moisture, creating a wonderful base for the dish. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you sauté the onions and garlic—this builds depth in flavor and a rich, savory sauce.

Another tip is to layer your ingredients thoughtfully. By cooking the beef first and then adding the onions and garlic, you allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The moisture from the zucchini will also help deglaze the pan during the final cooking phase, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Keep an eye on your zucchini; it'll need just enough time to soften without losing its shape, ensuring a satisfying texture in each bite.

Ingredient Insights

The use of ground beef is fantastic for its quick cooking time and protein content, but you can easily substitute it with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're opting for turkey, consider adding a touch more oil to keep the dish moist, as turkey tends to be drier than beef. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative; adjust cooking times and water levels accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.

Zucchini not only contributes great texture to this dish but also absorbs the surrounding flavors beautifully. For variety, feel free to experiment with other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Each will bring its own unique taste and nutritional benefits while keeping the dish colorful and vibrant. Just be mindful of cooking times; softer vegetables like spinach will require less time than the zucchini.

Storage and Serving Recommendations

This Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet is perfect for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for a month. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This will help to restore some moisture and prevent it from becoming too thick or sticky.

Serving this dish can be versatile as well—try it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or serve it in lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing option. If you want to amplify the flavors, drizzling with a bit of soy sauce or sesame oil right before serving introduces an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley not just for color but also for a bright, herbal note that complements the savory elements of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a delicious Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for ease.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in the sliced zucchini and Italian seasoning.

Cook Until Tender

Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender. If desired, stir in the soy sauce, mixing well to combine.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

This dish can be served on its own or over rice for a heartier meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs or chili flakes for a kick. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Adjustments and Variations

Experimenting with spices can take this dish to new heights. Try adding some red pepper flakes for heat or swapping the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning for a different flavor profile. To accommodate personal taste preferences, consider introducing a bit of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end of cooking for a zingy brightness that cuts through the richness of the beef.

Should you be working with an abundance of garden zucchini, feel free to double the quantity! Not only will this add bulk and nutrition, but it also makes for a lovely presentation. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; a larger volume of zucchini will need a few extra minutes to become tender.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your zucchini is becoming mushy, it may be due to overcooking or excessive moisture release. Make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, and if you're adding additional vegetables, balance the moisture levels by adjusting cooking times accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to add heartier vegetables first, and introduce softer ones like zucchini toward the end.

In the case of leftover beef grease in the pan, simply drain excess fat after browning the meat, but be careful not to lose all the drippings, as these contribute immensely to the flavor base of your vegetables. If you do have too much grease, using a spoon or a baster to remove excess can be a quick fix before adding your next ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in a skillet before serving.

→ What can I substitute for zucchini?

You can use bell peppers, yellow squash, or even broccoli instead of zucchini for a different taste.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Just let it cool down, then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe low in carbs?

Yes! This recipe is relatively low in carbs, especially if served without rice.