This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder—hearty, wholesome, and full of flavor. Made with ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant zucchini, it’s a 30-minute comfort food recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan simplicity – Fewer dishes, less cleanup.
- Balanced and nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome veggies.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🔪 Instructions
- Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Brown the beef
Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown for 5–7 minutes or until no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed. - Cook sweet potatoes
Stir in sweet potatoes along with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. - Add zucchini
Add diced zucchini to the skillet. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, just until softened but still slightly crisp. - Finish and garnish
Remove from heat, top with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
🌶️ Recipe Variations
Spicy Southwest Twist:
Add canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, and cumin. Top with shredded cheddar and cilantro.
Italian-Inspired:
Use Italian seasoning and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Add bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, then finish with Parmesan and basil.
Asian Fusion:
Replace paprika with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Add bell peppers and snap peas, and serve with rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Top with a Fried Egg – The yolk adds richness and extra protein.
- Serve Over Grains – Great with rice, quinoa, or couscous.
- Make It a Wrap – Spoon into tortillas with cheese and sour cream for a tasty handheld option.
💡 Tips for Success
- Dice evenly – Cut sweet potatoes into small, uniform cubes so they cook through evenly.
- Use fresh herbs – Parsley, cilantro, or chives added at the end brighten up the dish.
- Swap proteins – Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Add extra olive oil if needed.
🥡 Storage & Meal Prep
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Meal Prep: Double the recipe for easy lunches all week—it tastes even better the next day!
🧾 Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbs: 18 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Just note that turkey has a milder flavor—feel free to bump up the spices.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores well and makes a great meal prep option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes—just add them at the right stage to keep their texture.
Is this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Just skip the cheese topping or use a plant-based alternative.
🥄 Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is your go-to recipe for when you want something quick, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. With a balance of savory beef, sweet potato richness, and fresh zucchini, this meal hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making it for meal prep or a last-minute dinner, it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.