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Keto One-Pan Hamburger 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 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works best)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional but adds sweetness and color)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 cup sugar-free marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedge, for a quick squeeze at the end (optional, but brightens the dish)

Method
 

  1. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. When it’s shimmering, add the ground beef.
  2. Brown the beef: Break it up with a spatula and cook until mostly browned, about 5–6 minutes. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks.
  3. Add aromatics: Stir in the onion and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Season it up: Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the meat evenly.
  5. Cook the veggies: Add zucchini and bell pepper. Sprinkle with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
  6. Create the sauce: Pour in marinara and beef broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Make it creamy: Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Add the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes until melted and gooey.
  9. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Add a squeeze of lemon if using and shower with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot right from the pan.