If you’re looking for a nutritious, one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is exactly what you need. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a quick healthy lunch, this dish combines hearty ground beef, sweet and savory vegetables, and a touch of spice to satisfy both your taste buds and your schedule. And best of all, it’s gluten-free, Whole30-friendly, and uses simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet recipe checks every box for convenience, flavor, and nutrition. It’s made in just one pan, which means fewer dishes and faster cleanup—always a win. The sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory richness of the beef and the freshness of the zucchini. The Dijon mustard and tomato passata add a tangy twist, while the red pepper flakes provide optional heat. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping your lunches for the week, this recipe is flexible, wholesome, and comforting. Plus, it’s a perfect fit for low-carb, gluten-free, paleo, or Whole30 diets. You’ll love how easily it comes together—and how satisfying each bite is.

Must-Have Ingredients for a Flavorful Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet

Main Skillet Ingredients

1. ☑ 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2. ☑ 1 lb ground beef
3. ☑ 1 garlic clove, minced
4. ☑ ½ cup onions, diced (cut very small)
5. ☑ ½ cup red bell peppers, diced
6. ☑ 2½ cups sweet potatoes, diced
7. ☑ ¼ cup beef broth or water
8. ☑ 1 medium zucchini, quartered
9. ☑ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10. ☑ ⅓ cup tomato passata or tomato sauce of your choice
11. ☑ ½ teaspoon dried oregano
12. ☑ ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
13. ☑ Salt and black pepper to taste
14. ☑ Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Meal Prep

• ☑ 5 cups cauliflower rice

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

1. Sauté the beef: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and garlic. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add onions and red bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft. Add a splash more oil if needed.
3. Add sweet potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and beef broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The steam helps soften the sweet potatoes.
4. Add zucchini: Toss in the zucchini and cook for another 3 minutes until tender.
5. Combine and season: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in Dijon mustard, tomato passata, dried oregano, crushed red pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

Meal Prepping Instructions

1. Evenly divide cauliflower rice into 5 meal prep containers.
2. Spoon the skillet mixture over the cauliflower rice.
3. Seal with lids and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
4. To reheat: Microwave for 2 minutes or until heated through.

Essential Serving & Storage Secrets

Serving Ideas:

• Serve on a bed of cauliflower rice or quinoa.
• Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Add lime juice or fresh herbs for a zesty kick.

Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4–5 days.
• To freeze: Let the skillet mixture cool completely. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• To reheat: Microwave in 1-minute intervals or reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is your go-to solution for wholesome, convenient meals. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple steps, nutrient-packed ingredients, and a naturally flavorful blend, this recipe satisfies your cravings while keeping you on track with your goals. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just trying to eat cleaner, this dish has you covered. Enjoy it fresh out of the skillet or from a well-stocked meal prep container—either way, it delivers delicious results.

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