Name: Hamburger Zucchini Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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This hamburger zucchini skillet turns a handful of pantry staples into a cozy, cheesy dinner in one pan and under 30 minutes. Juicy ground beef, tender zucchini, and melty cheese come together in a skillet that tastes like a cross between a burger and a casserole, minus the bun and the extra dishes.

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Hamburger Zucchini Skillet

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A quick one-pan hamburger zucchini skillet loaded with ground beef, tender zucchini, tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese.

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced zucchini, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For a lower-carb version, skip the diced tomatoes and add an extra zucchini. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.

Author: Ella Whitley
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this hamburger zucchini skillet?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken works well as a leaner substitute. Just add a little extra olive oil since turkey is lower in fat and can stick to the pan.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy in a hamburger zucchini skillet?

Cut the zucchini into slightly thicker half moons and avoid overcooking. Simmer just until fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes, then remove from heat right after the cheese melts.

What can I serve with hamburger zucchini skillet?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or steamed rice to soak up the juices. It's also hearty enough to enjoy on its own as a low-carb main dish.

Can I make this hamburger zucchini skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef, onion, and zucchini mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat in the skillet, then add the cheese and melt it just before serving.

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