Beef And Zucchini Skillet

Easy Beef and Zucchini Skillet

This recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that’s perfect for summer. It’s loaded with tender zucchini and savory ground beef, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean or higher recommended)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
3. Stir in diced zucchini, diced tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until zucchini is tender-crisp.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley (if using). Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20). However, drain the excess fat before adding other ingredients.
• Want to add more veggies? Try throwing in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Don’t have fresh parsley? Substitute with 1 teaspoon dried parsley.
• If your zucchini releases a lot of liquid, simmer the skillet uncovered for a few minutes at the end to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper would be delicious additions.