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Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

A hearty, one-pan Mexican skillet featuring tender ground beef, sautéed zucchini, and spicy diced tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced and quartered
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 10 ounces Mexican style diced tomatoes with green chilis (canned)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Mix in chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute to toast the spices.
  6. Add sliced zucchini quarters and cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, about 5 minutes.
  7. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilis; bring to a simmer and cook for 8 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges.

Notes

For extra depth, add a splash of beef broth or a handful of black beans before simmering.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Mexican, Skillet, Ground Beef, Zucchini