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Keto Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet - Fast, Flavorful, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef (80–90% lean)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the produce: Slice the zucchini into half-moons, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Drain the tomatoes if using canned.
  2. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink, 5–7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Render or drain: If there’s excess grease, drain it. If your beef is very lean, leave a little fat or add 1 tablespoon oil.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Push the beef to the side. Add 1 tablespoon oil if needed, then sauté the onion for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add zucchini: Stir in the zucchini. Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender but still crisp around the edges. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Season well: Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir to coat everything evenly.
  7. Tomatoes and paste: Mix in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir until the paste dissolves and the mixture looks saucy, about 2 minutes.
  8. Simmer briefly: Reduce heat to medium and let it bubble for 3–4 minutes to meld flavors and slightly thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  9. Optional cheesy finish: Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover for 1–2 minutes until melted.
  10. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and finish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot.