Description
There’s something magical about one-pan meals. They combine simplicity, flavor, and convenience, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This hearty dish blends the rich flavors of ground beef with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and the light, crisp texture of zucchini. It’s comforting, yet nourishing, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, meal prepping, or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re in a rush or have a bit more time to spare, this easy-to-make skillet meal will soon become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
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
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook for 5-7 minutes, draining excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes, seasoning with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cover and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mix in the zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until just tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh zucchini and sweet potatoes will provide the best texture and flavor. If you use frozen vegetables, the dish may become watery.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices to suit your taste. Add more smoked paprika for extra smokiness, or throw in a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, use a bigger skillet or cook in batches to ensure the ingredients cook evenly.
- Experiment with Herbs: You can substitute oregano with other herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes