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Keto Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet (Fast & Flavor Packed) - Weeknight Hero

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works best)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (or a mix)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional, for brightness)

Method
 

  1. Prep the veggies: Slice the zucchini into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Have spices ready.
  2. Brown the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until well browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes.
  3. Render and drain (if needed): If there’s lots of grease, drain off excess, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Push beef to one side. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the empty side, then add onion. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  6. Cook the zucchini: Add zucchini slices. Toss to coat in the seasoned beef mixture. Cook 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender but not mushy. Stop while it still has a little bite.
  7. Adjust and brighten: Taste and season with more salt and pepper. Add lemon juice or a splash of vinegar if you like a touch of brightness.
  8. Add cheese: Sprinkle cheddar (or mozzarella) and Parmesan on top. Reduce heat to low, cover for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts. If you prefer browned cheese, broil the skillet (oven-safe only) for 1–2 minutes.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot straight from the skillet.