Savor the vibrant flavors of Italian-inspired comfort food with Zucchini Beef Italiano, a hearty and wholesome one-skillet dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe combines tender ground beef, sautéed zucchini, and a robust tomato sauce infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Topped with melty mozzarella cheese and garnished with fresh basil, it's a delightful balance of savory and fresh flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes, this versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over pasta or rice for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Ideal for fans of quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner options, Zucchini Beef Italiano is a must-try for anyone seeking a new way to enjoy zucchini and ground beef.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook, while breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and flavors have melded.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired, before serving.
Serve warm as is, or over cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Calories |
2030 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 146.9 g | 188% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.8 g | 274% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 385 mg | 128% | |
| Sodium | 3100 mg | 135% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.5 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.8 g | 53% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.6 g | ||
| Protein | 118.7 g | 237% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1100 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 14.6 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 3865 mg | 82% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.