One-Pan Taco Zucchini Skillet

One-Pan Taco Zucchini Skillet is a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish brings together seasoned ground meat, fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and spices in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and loaded with taco flavor—perfect on its own or served with rice, tortillas, or lettuce wraps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Everything cooks in one pan for minimal cleanup
• Quick and easy—ready in 30 minutes or less
• Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients
• Classic taco flavor with a healthy twist
• Great for using up garden zucchini
• Kid-friendly and customizable
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
• Perfect for meal prep
• Can be served in a variety of ways
• A flavorful way to get more vegetables into dinner

ingredients

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

• Ground beef, turkey, or chicken
• Zucchini, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Canned diced tomatoes (with or without green chilies)
• Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado, lime wedges

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in garlic and taco seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add chopped zucchini and canned tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
6. Uncover, reduce heat, and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again briefly until cheese is melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with desired toppings and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cook time is approximately 15–20 minutes, totaling around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Use black beans or corn for a vegetarian version
• Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor
• Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat
• Use cauliflower rice to stretch the meal
• Stir in cooked quinoa for added bulk
• Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat
• Try fire-roasted tomatoes for smoky flavor
• Use green zucchini, yellow squash, or both
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch
• Finish with a drizzle of taco sauce or salsa verde

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Fresh zucchini is best for texture, but thawed and drained frozen zucchini can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best meat to use?

Ground beef is classic, but ground turkey or chicken work great for a lighter version.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spiced with taco seasoning, but you can adjust the heat with hot sauce or peppers.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What can I serve with this?

It’s great on its own or served with rice, tortillas, over salad, or in lettuce wraps.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use a large skillet or sauté pan to ensure even cooking.

Will the zucchini get soggy?

Not if you don’t overcook it—aim for tender-crisp texture by checking it after 7 minutes.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes, it reheats well and is perfect for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

How do I make homemade taco seasoning?

Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well in a keto or low-carb meal plan.

Conclusion

One-Pan Taco Zucchini Skillet is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor—a healthy, satisfying meal that comes together in minutes with just one pan to clean. It’s versatile, nutrient-packed, and full of bold taco spices, making it a winning weeknight dinner for any household. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy it any way you like!

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