Samantha When I’m looking for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and full of fresh flavor, I always turn to this Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet. It’s a simple, one-pan dinner that combines seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese for a dish that feels indulgent while staying healthy. What makes it even better is that it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it one of my favorite easy weeknight ground beef dinners.
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it hits all the marks—it’s budget-friendly, loaded with protein, and naturally lower in carbs, making it perfect for keto ground beef zucchini skillet recipes or anyone who wants a lighter dinner without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can keep it classic or add your own twist by mixing in rice, pasta, or extra veggies.
The beauty of this ground beef and zucchini skillet lies in its balance: you get the hearty satisfaction of a cheesy beef skillet with the lightness of fresh zucchini. According to Healthline, zucchini is nutrient-dense, providing antioxidants, potassium, and vitamin C while keeping calories low. When combined with lean ground beef, it becomes a nutrient-packed meal that fuels your body and pleases your taste buds.
Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet – Easy Low-Carb One-Pan Dinner Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean, 90/10 works best
- 3 medium zucchini sliced into half moons
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs oregano, basil, thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Add zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover skillet, and let melt.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
1. Choose lean ground beef: Opt for 90% lean ground beef to keep this low-carb dinner lighter while still packing plenty of protein. This makes your skillet healthier without losing that savory flavor. 2. Don’t overcook the zucchini: Zucchini cooks fast, so add it toward the end to keep it tender-crisp. Overcooking can make it mushy, and you want those bites to balance perfectly with the juicy beef. 3. Boost flavor with seasoning: A mix of garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs can elevate this one-pan ground beef recipe into a restaurant-worthy dish. Season well for maximum flavor in every bite. 4. Add cheese for comfort: A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top makes this skillet recipe extra satisfying, turning it into a cheesy ground beef zucchini skillet the whole family will love. 5. Make it meal prep friendly: This easy ground beef recipe keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Store portions in airtight containers for a quick, healthy low-carb meal prep option all week.Recipe Overview
- Course: Dinner, Main Dish
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb, Healthy
- Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Main Ingredients: Ground beef, zucchini, onion, garlic, tomato, cheese
- Best For: Weeknight dinners, low-carb meals, meal prep, family-friendly dinners
Nutritional Snapshot
- Calories: ~390 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sodium: ~540mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
(According to Nutritionix, zucchini is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, making it a perfect pairing with lean ground beef for a balanced skillet meal.)
Budget Breakdown
- 1 lb ground beef – $6.50
- 3 medium zucchini – $3.00
- 1 medium onion – $0.80
- 3 garlic cloves – $0.50
- 1 can diced tomatoes – $1.20
- 1 cup shredded cheese – $2.99
- Pantry staples (olive oil, salt, pepper, herbs) – $0.70
Total Cost: ~$15.69
Cost Per Serving: ~$3.92
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for this ground beef zucchini skillet recipe came from my love of one-pan meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Growing up, skillet dinners were a weeknight tradition—they were fast, affordable, and always comforting. Over time, I began experimenting with healthier versions, looking for ways to make them more balanced without losing their heartiness. That’s how this dish came to life.
Zucchini is the perfect partner for ground beef. It cooks quickly, absorbs all the savory juices, and adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese. This makes it one of the most versatile ground beef and vegetable skillet recipes you can make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a casual dinner, this skillet adapts to every situation.
I also love how customizable it is. For a classic version, I stick to tomatoes, cheese, and zucchini. If I’m craving something different, I’ll add spices for a Mexican ground beef zucchini skillet or swap in cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation. The possibilities are endless. According to WebMD, zucchini is one of the best vegetables for supporting digestion and hydration while being versatile enough for savory and even sweet recipes. That’s what makes it such a key ingredient in this dish.
This skillet represents what I believe about cooking: real food should be flavorful, simple, and nourishing all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
Hearty & Filling
This ground beef zucchini skillet has the perfect balance of indulgence and lightness. The ground beef adds a rich, savory depth while the zucchini keeps things fresh and nutritious. It’s a hearty dish that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down, making it one of my favorite healthy skillet dinners.
One-Pan Dinner
Forget juggling multiple pots and pans—this is an easy ground beef zucchini recipe made in one skillet. Cooking everything together not only cuts down on dishes but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours when it’s really ready in just minutes.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
With only 9 grams of carbs per serving, this dish is perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto ground beef zucchini skillet recipe. The zucchini replaces heavier starches, keeping the meal satisfying but still aligned with low-carb goals. According to Mayo Clinic, low-carb meals can help with energy balance, weight management, and blood sugar control.
Quick Weeknight Recipe
Ready in just 30 minutes, this skillet is one of my favorite quick ground beef recipes for weeknights. It’s fast, flexible, and always delicious—ideal when you need a stress-free dinner after a long day.
Family-Friendly
The cheesy, savory flavors of this zucchini hamburger skillet make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Even picky eaters will love the gooey melted cheese and tender zucchini when paired with flavorful beef. This dish proves that family-friendly ground beef dinners don’t have to be bland or boring.
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Perfect For
Weeknight Dinners
When you’re short on time, this ground beef and zucchini skillet is one of the easiest and most reliable dinners you can make. It’s done in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold flavor without extra effort. This makes it one of the best quick ground beef skillet recipes for weeknights, especially when you want something filling but not heavy.
Meal Prep
If you love planning ahead, this ground beef zucchini skillet meal prep recipe is ideal. Divide it into containers, refrigerate for up to 4 days, and enjoy stress-free lunches or dinners. The zucchini stays tender, and the beef reheats beautifully. According to EatRight.org, meal prepping saves time, reduces food waste, and makes it easier to stick to healthy eating goals.
Family-Friendly Meals
This dish is the definition of family-friendly ground beef zucchini recipes. The cheesy, savory combination of beef and zucchini makes it appealing to kids while still satisfying adults. You can even sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing, making it a smart way to encourage healthier eating at home.
Low-Carb & Keto Diets
For those following keto or low-carb lifestyles, this keto ground beef zucchini skillet is a perfect fit. With only 9 grams of carbs per serving, it’s high in protein, rich in healthy fats from cheese and olive oil, and still delivers all the comfort of a hearty skillet dinner.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (lean, 90/10 works best)
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
Ground Beef
The star of the dish—rich, flavorful, and high in protein. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
Zucchini
Adds freshness, fiber, and nutrients without weighing the dish down. It’s a low-carb powerhouse ingredient.
Cheese
Melty cheddar or mozzarella ties everything together into a cozy skillet dinner.
Tomatoes
Bring acidity and juiciness that balances the richness of beef and cheese.
Garlic & Onion
The flavor base of any great skillet meal—savory, aromatic, and essential.
How to Make This Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Add zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover skillet, and let melt.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Sam’s Pro Tips for Success
- Drain beef if needed: If your ground beef is fatty, drain excess grease before adding zucchini.
- Don’t overcook zucchini: Cook until tender but still slightly firm for best texture.
- Add spice if you like: Red pepper flakes or chili powder give this skillet a kick.
- Double it for meal prep: This recipe reheats beautifully for quick lunches.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
If you’re craving comfort food, double the cheese and let it melt into the beef and zucchini for an ultra-gooey skillet dinner. This variation is one of the best cheesy ground beef zucchini recipes, perfect for kids and adults alike who love that extra indulgence.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet
For a lighter and fresher twist, add olives, feta, and baby spinach. This Mediterranean beef zucchini skillet brings bright flavors and heart-healthy fats, turning your skillet dinner into something that feels like a gourmet meal. According to Harvard School of Public Health, the Mediterranean diet is linked to reduced risk of chronic disease and better long-term health.
Low-Carb Beef & Zucchini Stir Fry
Looking for a global twist? Swap tomatoes for soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to create an Asian-inspired zucchini and ground beef stir fry. It’s low-carb, packed with umami flavor, and cooks in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something different without extra effort.
Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet with Rice
For a heartier option, stir in cooked rice or cauliflower rice. This creates a ground beef zucchini skillet with rice that stretches your ingredients further and makes it a filling, budget-friendly dinner. The cauliflower rice option also keeps it low-carb while boosting fiber and nutrients.
More Flavorful Skillet Recipes to Try Next
Comforting & Cheesy: Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
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Family Favorite: Cheese Hamburger Casserole Delight
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Storage and Reheat Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave.
Make It a Meal
Pair your skillet with these favorites:
Or explore more from my Easy Dinner Ideas, Meal Prep, and Low Carb Dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ground beef zucchini skillet healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh vegetables. According to WebMD, zucchini supports digestion, hydration, and immune health, making it a smart choice for balanced meals.
Can I make ground beef zucchini skillet keto-friendly?
Absolutely. Just skip the tomatoes or use less and stick with cheese, zucchini, and beef for a keto ground beef zucchini skillet recipe that’s low in carbs but still full of flavor.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully, but you can also try parmesan, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added variety and extra flavor in your beef and zucchini skillet dinner.
Can I meal prep ground beef zucchini skillet?
Yes, this is one of the best meal prep ground beef recipes. Portion it into containers, refrigerate, and reheat during the week for quick, high-protein lunches or dinners.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles all work well. Swapping beef for lighter proteins makes it a healthy zucchini skillet recipe while still keeping it satisfying.
How do I keep zucchini from getting mushy?
Don’t overcook it—add zucchini near the end and cook just until tender-crisp for the best texture. Overcooking is the main reason zucchini becomes soggy in skillet meals.
Can I freeze ground beef zucchini skillet?
Yes, this recipe is freezer-friendly. Cook it, cool completely, and store in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep flavors fresh. The USDA recommends freezing cooked ground beef dishes within 3–4 days of cooking for best safety and quality.
What sides go with ground beef zucchini skillet?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs well with side salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. For low-carb sides, try cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber salad.
Can I make this without cheese?
Yes, you can leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version. The flavors of ground beef, zucchini, garlic, and tomato still make it a flavorful, satisfying skillet dinner.
How do I make ground beef zucchini skillet more filling?
Add grains like brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier dish, or serve it with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet proves that healthy meals don’t have to be bland or complicated. It’s everything I love in a dinner—quick to make, balanced with protein and veggies, and endlessly customizable for different tastes and diets. It works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for meal prep, and the combination of cheesy ground beef with tender zucchini is one you’ll crave again and again.
If you’re searching for a low-carb one-pan beef dinner, a keto-friendly skillet recipe, or just a family meal that’s both comforting and nourishing, this dish deserves a spot in your rotation. With affordable ingredients and just one pan, it makes dinnertime stress-free while delivering restaurant-worthy flavor.
“Wholesome, hearty, and done in 30 minutes—this skillet brings comfort food to the table without the guilt.” – Sam
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A quick, low-carb skillet dinner with ground beef, zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese—ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
