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Mexican Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet: A Quick and Delicious One-Pan Meal

This Mexican Zucchini Ground Beef Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring ground beef, zucchini, and vibrant vegetables, all seasoned with spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy it on its own or with warm tortillas!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Dice zucchinis, chop onion and bell pepper, mince garlic, and prepare corn.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Stir in diced zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
  5. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and add corn. Stir to combine.
  6. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 10 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks too dry.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let sit for a minute, then serve garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy on its own or with warm tortillas, rice, or a side salad.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for quick meals.
  • For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.