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Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet in a white bowl topped with melted cheese and parsley

Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet

This Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet is a time-saving, delicious one-pan meal that combines lean ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melty Cheddar cheese for a quick family-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 medium sweet onion, finely diced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
  • 1 (8 ounce) package sliced white mushrooms
  • 1 (6.5 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and ground white pepper to taste
  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 (8 ounce) package shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.
  2. In a separate bowl, crush the stewed tomatoes into smaller pieces. Add them to the skillet along with mushrooms, tomato sauce, olives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens.
  4. Meanwhile, slice the zucchini lengthwise and then crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Add the zucchini slices to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still firm.
  5. Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Don’t overcook the zucchini: You want it tender-crisp, not mushy, so keep an eye on it during the final cooking step. Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. Cheese it up: Feel free to double the cheese if you’re a fan of extra gooey goodness (who isn’t?). Storage tip: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave. Batch cooking: This freezes well without the cheese. Thaw, reheat, and add fresh cheese before serving.