Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Here’s a  recipe for a Ground Beef, Zucchini, and Sweet Potato Skillet—a delicious, hearty, and healthy one-pan meal that’s easy to make.

Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced into small cubes

• 2 medium zucchinis, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced (optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for some heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: shredded cheese for topping (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Veggies:
   Peel and dice the sweet potato into small, even cubes (about 1/2 inch). Dice the zucchini, onion, and bell pepper if using. Mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the sweet potatoes to start softening and lightly browning but not completely cooked through. Once done, remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Add Spices:
   Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well so the beef is evenly coated with the spices.

5. Add Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
   Add the diced zucchini (and bell pepper if using) to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still has some bite.

6. Combine Everything:
   Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes so all the flavors meld together.

7. Optional Topping:
   If you want, sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 2 minutes until melted.

8. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy hot!

Tips:

• You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.

• Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor.

• If you want it spicy, add a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes.

• Serve with a side salad or over rice/quinoa for a fuller meal.