Looking for a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? This chopped beef and zucchini skillet is just the recipe you need. Packed with flavors and textures, it’s a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. You can whip this up in no time, using fresh ingredients that you likely have on hand.
This dish is not only quick to make, but it also offers a delightful balance of savory beef and tender zucchini, making it a well-rounded meal. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite spices or serve it over rice or pasta for added heartiness.
Vibrant Ingredients
This skillet dish brings together an array of colorful ingredients that not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to a delightful flavor profile.
Chopped beef serves as the hearty foundation, providing rich protein content. When sautéed, it takes on a savory taste that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the vegetables.
Sliced zucchini and diced bell peppers introduce a crunchy texture and vibrant colors that brighten up the dish. These vegetables not only add nutrition but also complement the beef in both taste and presentation.
Cooking Method
The process of creating this dish is straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet; this sets the stage for the aromatics that follow.
After adding chopped onion and minced garlic, the kitchen fills with a tantalizing aroma as they sauté until translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base.
Flavor Enhancements
Once the aromatics are ready, the chopped beef is introduced. It’s essential to break the meat apart to ensure even cooking and browning.
The addition of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, elevates the overall taste of the dish. These simple seasonings highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients while adding depth.
Final Touches
As the dish nears completion, the vibrant zucchini and bell peppers are stirred in. This not only provides a pop of color but also allows the vegetables to soften slightly while retaining their crunch.
Garnishing with fresh parsley before serving adds a splash of green and a hint of freshness, making it visually appealing and inviting.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet dish can be served on its own or accompanied by sides such as rice or pasta. Incorporating a grain adds heartiness and rounds out the meal.
The versatility of this recipe means that it can easily adapt to personal preferences. Feel free to customize the vegetables or adjust the seasonings according to your tastes.
Nutritional Benefits
Aside from its delightful taste, this dish offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. With about 320 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying option for a main dish.
Including vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers increases the fiber content, making this not just a filling meal but a nutritious one as well.
Delicious Chopped Beef and Zucchini Skillet
This skillet dish features juicy chopped beef sautéed to perfection, combined with fresh zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious meal. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a savory and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the sliced zucchini and diced bell pepper. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot, either on its own or over rice or pasta.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
