Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that packs both protein and vegetables into one dish, this Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet is for you! It combines a variety of fresh vegetables with savory grass-fed ground beef, all cooked together in a single skillet for easy cleanup. Not only is it quick to prepare (taking just 30 minutes from start to finish), but it’s also customizable with different veggies depending on what you have available. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a family-friendly dish, this recipe provides nourishment without compromising on taste!

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped

• 1 large crown broccoli, chopped

• 6 radishes, chopped

• 1 pound grass-fed ground beef

• 1 tsp sea salt, to taste

• 2 tsp ground ginger (optional)

• 1 medium zucchini squash, chopped

• 1 large yellow squash, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large (12-inch) cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, broccoli, and radishes. Stir well, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

2. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Flatten the beef against the skillet to create a beef layer. Sprinkle with sea salt and ground ginger (if using).

3. Allow the beef to brown for about 2 minutes, then flip it to the other side and cook for another 2 minutes. Use a spatula to break the beef into chunks and stir it into the vegetables so everything combines.

4. Add the zucchini squash and yellow squash. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with sea salt.

5. Remove the lid and continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until much of the liquid has evaporated.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Swap: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites. Bell peppers, cauliflower, or spinach would make great additions.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

• Different Protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil or any other cooking oil you prefer, but avocado oil is recommended due to its high heat tolerance.

2. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to suit your preferences.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze the vegetable and ground beef skillet?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients.

6. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you use frozen veggies, be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

7. What can I serve this with?

This skillet dish is great on its own, but you could pair it with a side of quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad.

8. Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins can be used as a substitute for the ground beef in this recipe.

9. How do I know when the vegetables are done cooking?

The vegetables should be tender but not mushy. You can check their doneness by piercing them with a fork or tasting a piece.

10. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe itself is not spicy, but you can add spices or hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your preference.

Conclusion

This Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet is a perfect example of a healthy, hearty, and easy meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious dish that satisfies your hunger and nourishes your body. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a filling meal prep option, or simply a way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables, this recipe has you covered. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for busy nights when you need a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Print