Zucchini and Ground Beef Stir Fry

There’s something about zucchini that always takes me back to late summer dinners growing upwindows open, cicadas buzzing, and that sizzle from the skillet in the background.

But this stir fry? It’s got a little twist.

I had just gotten back from a long day, and all I wanted was something hearty, fast, and protein-packedbut not boring. I wanted flavor. Comfort. And let’s be honest, minimal cleanup.

So I reached for some ground beef, a couple zucchinis I’d picked up at the farmer’s market, and my go-to spice: sweet paprika. And just like that, this dish was born.

What I love about this recipe is how unfussy it is.
Just a handful of ingredients, one pan, and boomyou’ve got a meal that feels like it took way more effort than it actually did.

Also… melted cheese on top? Always a yes in my book.

Whether you’re cooking for two or meal prepping for the week, this Zucchini and Ground Beef Stir Fry hits all the marks:
Gluten-free, dairy-free (if you skip the cheese or use a plant-based one), low carb, high protein, and big on flavor.

Let’s get cooking!

Try my Taco Beef Salad Bowl with Pico de Gallo recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

→ One pan, zero fuss. Everything comes together in one skilletless mess, less cleanup, more time to chill.

→ Big flavor, simple ingredients. You don’t need anything fancy. A few pantry staples and you’re off to the races.

→ Ready in 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something home-cooked without spending hours in the kitchen.

→ High protein, low carb. If you’re watching your macros or just want to feel full and fueledthis one’s a keeper.

→ Meal prep-friendly. It reheats like a champ, so go ahead and make extra for tomorrow’s lunch.

→ Totally customizable. Add mushrooms, swap the beef for turkey, or throw in some chili flakes if you like a little kick.

→ Comfort food vibes. It’s cozy, cheesy (if you want it to be), and hits that savory spot every time.

Try my Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe.

What You’ll Need To Make

🥕 Let’s Talk Ingredients: Here’s why these simple ingredients totally work together – and why I keep coming back to this recipe:

→ Ground Beef: Juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein. I usually go for 85% lean – it’s got just the right amount of fat to keep everything moist without being greasy.

→ Zucchini: Mild, tender, and it soaks up all the seasoning like a champ. Plus, it’s low in carbs and high in “I feel like I’m being healthy” vibes.

→ Onion: Adds that little kick of sweetness and depth. I always say a dish without onion is like a joke without a punchline – something’s missing.

→ Sweet Paprika: Just a small sprinkle brings a warm, smoky vibe without overpowering the dish. It’s the kind of spice that makes people ask, “What’s in this?!”

→ Grated Cheese: Optional – but highly recommended. It melts into everything and gives it that cozy, comforting finish. Use whatever you’ve got on hand – cheddar, mozzarella, even dairy-free works great!

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What You’ll Need To Do

Time required: 35 mins

1| Grab a pan and heat up about a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and ground beef. Cook it all together for around 5 minutesseason it with paprika, a good pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper while you’re at it.

2| Once the beef’s browned and smelling amazing, throw in the sliced zucchini. Pop a lid on the pan, turn the heat down low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the zucchini gets nice and tender.

3| Now for the cheesy magicstir in the grated cheese and let it melt right into everything. That’s it! Scoop it onto plates and dig in.

Glycemic Index: 15 (low) Glycemic Load: 1 (low)

Recipe Swaps & Creative Tweaks

Let’s be realsometimes you’ve gotta work with what you’ve got. Here are a few easy swaps and creative tweaks to make this stir fry your own:

🥩 Protein Swaps

• Ground turkey or chicken – Leaner but still tasty. Great if you’re watching fat or just switching it up.
• Plant-based crumbles – Want to go meatless? Use your favorite veggie groundit works like a charm.
• Tofu or tempeh – For a totally vegetarian version with a nice protein punch.

🥦 Veggie Tweaks

• Swap zucchini for yellow squash or mushrooms – Same vibe, different flavor.
• Add bell peppers or spinach – For a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Frozen veggie mix – In a rush? Toss in a handful of frozen stir fry mix and call it a day.

🧀 Cheese Options

• Go dairy-free – Use your favorite plant-based cheese or skip it entirely.
• Try different cheese – Mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a little twist.

🔥 Flavor Boosters

• Add garlic or chili flakes – For extra kick and bold flavor.
• Splash of soy sauce or coconut aminos – If you want it a little saucier and more savory.
• Squeeze of lemon or lime – A little acid at the end brightens everything up.

🍚 Make It a Bowl

• Serve it over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or zoodles if you want to stretch it into more servings or turn it into a meal prep bowl.

Try my Beef and Broccoli Stem Stir-Fry recipe.

Helpful Tips for Success

→ Don’t Overcook the Beef: Keep an eye on the ground beefovercooking can make it dry. Just cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, and you’ll keep it juicy.

→ Slice Zucchini Evenly: Try to slice the zucchini into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate. Thin slices work best for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

→ Use a Non-stick Skillet: A good non-stick pan helps everything cook evenly and makes cleanup a breeze, especially with cheesy, gooey dishes like this one.

→ Season Gradually: Season in layers! Add a little paprika, salt, and pepper while cooking the beef, then taste and adjust when the zucchini goes in. You can always add a little more as it cooks.

→ Let It Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering time with the zucchini. Allow it to soften and release its juices, which helps make a delicious, flavorful base.

→ Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground black pepper and paprika add a punch of flavor that pre-ground versions can’t match. It’s a small thing but makes a big difference.

→ Leftovers Reheat Well: This dish is great for meal prep! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and just heat it up in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give this dish a spicy kick!

Try my Rendang-Spiced Beef and Cauliflower recipe.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1| Buy Ground Beef in Bulk: If you make ground beef a regular part of your meals, buying in bulk can save you money. You can freeze portions for later use – just defrost when you need it.

2| Use Frozen Veggies: Frozen zucchini or a mixed veggie bag can be a more affordable option and still tastes great. Plus, you won’t have to worry about using up fresh produce before it goes bad!

3| Substitute Cheese with Less Expensive Options: If you’re looking to save on cheese, use a more affordable option like shredded mozzarella or even a store-brand version. Or, skip the cheese altogether to keep costs low.

4| Make Your Own Paprika: If you have a pantry stocked with spices, you can create your own paprika blend by combining smoked paprika with a bit of chili powder or cuminmuch cheaper than buying multiple pre-made spice mixes.

5| Go for Store Brands: For basic ingredients like olive oil, salt, pepper, and even ground beef, store-brand options are often just as good and much cheaper than name brands.

6| Add Extra Zucchini for Volume: Zucchini is usually pretty affordable, and adding a little extra will stretch the dish further. It’s light, nutritious, and helps bulk up your meal without breaking the bank.

7| Skip the Cheese, Use More Spices: If you’re really looking to cut costs, skip the cheese entirely and rely on spices like garlic, onion powder, and paprika to bring in the flavor. You won’t miss the cheese, I promise!

8| Repurpose Leftovers: This stir fry works great as leftovers, but you can also use it as a filling for tacos or wraps the next day. Stretch your meal even further with some tortillas or lettuce wraps.

Diet-Friendly Variations

Yes, it’s possible to make Keto, Low Carb, and Paleo versions of this Zucchini & Ground Beef Stir Fry! Here’s how you can tweak the recipe to fit each of those dietary needs:

Keto Version 🥓

The original recipe is already pretty close to Keto-friendly! But to ensure it’s fully in line with Keto guidelines, here’s what you can do:

• Cheese: Opt for full-fat, high-quality cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) instead of a reduced-fat option. You can even use a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Cheese is a big win on keto!
• Protein: Ground beef is great for Keto since it’s high in fat and protein, which keeps you feeling full.
• Veggies: Zucchini is already low in carbs, but feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli for more variety.

Low Carb Version 🥒

To keep the carbs low while still enjoying a tasty meal, follow these adjustments:

• Reduce or skip cheese: While cheese is low in carbs, reducing the amount can further lower the overall carb count. If you do use cheese, go light on it.
• Veggies: Stick to low-carb veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even cauliflower instead of higher-carb options like carrots or bell peppers.
• Serving suggestion: Instead of pairing with rice or other higher-carb options, try serving it over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage for a low-carb substitute that still gives you volume.

Paleo Version 🥥

For the Paleo version, you’ll need to make sure everything is grain-free, dairy-free, and processed-sugar-free:

• Cheese: Skip the cheese entirely since dairy isn’t allowed on the Paleo diet. You could add a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired or simply enjoy the stir fry without it.
• Cooking oil: Use coconut oil or avocado oil instead of olive oil, as these are more aligned with Paleo-friendly fats.
• Seasoning: Check the sweet paprika you use to make sure it doesn’t have any added sugar or preservatives. You can also try using freshly ground herbs and spices to enhance flavor.

Serving Ideas

Here are some fun and creative serving ideas to take your Zucchini & Ground Beef Stir Fry to the next level:

1. Cauliflower Rice Bowl

For a low-carb or Keto-friendly option, serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice. It soaks up all the juices and gives you that “rice” feel without the carbs!

2. Lettuce Wraps

Want something light and refreshing? Scoop the stir fry into crisp lettuce leaves (like Romaine or Butterhead) for a tasty, low-carb, and Paleo-friendly wrap. It’s like a taco but way healthier!

3. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)

For a Low Carb or Paleo twist, serve the stir fry over zucchini noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, just use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons of zucchini.

4. Quinoa

If you’re sticking with Low Carb but want a bit more heartiness, serve the stir fry over quinoa. It adds a nice texture and makes the meal more filling.

5. Sautéed Greens

Pair it with some sautéed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for an extra serving of veggies and a boost of nutrition. A squeeze of lemon or a dash of balsamic vinegar would complement the flavors beautifully!

6. Sweet Potato Mash

For a more comforting and hearty meal, serve the stir fry with mashed sweet potatoes. The slight sweetness of the potatoes balances perfectly with the savory stir fry.

7. Side of Avocado

If you want to add a creamy, healthy fat, serve the stir fry with slices of avocado on the side. It’s perfect for Keto and adds a rich, buttery texture.

8. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a great addition! Sautéed mushrooms can be served alongside the stir fry or mixed in for extra flavor and umami.

9. Side Salad

Pair your stir fry with a light side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the savory stir fry.

10. Rice Paper Rolls

Feeling creative? Turn the stir fry into a rice paper roll filling! Add some fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint) and a drizzle of soy sauce for a fun twist.

These serving ideas let you customize the recipe to fit your mood, dietary needs, or what you’ve got on hand. Get creative and enjoy! Let me know if you’d like any more ideas or tips for specific diets.

Try my Ground Beef and Potato Curry recipe.

Alcoholic Pairings

Here are some beverage pairings, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to complement your Zucchini & Ground Beef Stir Fry. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual weeknight or a special dinner, these drinks will add a perfect touch:

1. Crisp White Wine 🍷
   A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be a great choice! Their crisp, refreshing qualities balance the savory, slightly smoky flavors of the stir fry, while not overpowering the dish.
2. Light Beer 🍺
   A light lager or a pilsner works well. They’re crisp and refreshing, cutting through the richness of the ground beef without being too heavy.
3. Rosé 🌸
   If you’re in the mood for something a little more elegant, a dry Rosé offers a nice balance of fruity and crisp flavors, pairing beautifully with the dish’s savory profile.
4. Gin & Tonic 🍸
   The botanical flavors of a gin and tonic provide a fresh, clean finish, and the slight bitterness of the tonic complements the spices in the stir fry. It’s a great go-to for casual nights.
5. Margarita 🍹
   For a more festive vibe, a classic Margarita (on the rocks or blended) pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the stir fry. The citrusy tang complements the spices and adds a fun, zesty kick.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings

1. Iced Green Tea 🍵
   The subtle earthiness of iced green tea is refreshing and pairs beautifully with the savory stir fry, offering a calming balance. You could even add a slice of lemon for a citrusy twist.
2. Sparkling Water with Lime 🍋
   If you want something simple, sparkling water with a splash of lime is the way to go! It’s refreshing, light, and helps cleanse your palate between bites.
3. Cucumber Mint Water 🥒
   Infuse some water with cucumber and fresh mint for a light, hydrating option that feels refreshing and adds a nice herbal touch to complement the dish.
4. Lemonade 🍹
   A fresh, tangy lemonade (or sparkling lemonade) is a great non-alcoholic option that adds a bit of sweetness and acidity to balance the rich beef and spices in the stir fry.
5. Apple Cider 🍏
   Apple cider (served chilled or warm, depending on your mood) has a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory and slightly smoky flavors of the stir fry. If you want to make it fancy, go for sparkling apple cider.

Bonus Pairing Tip:

If you’re serving this recipe in a more casual setting, don’t forget the option of a chilled iced teawhether it’s black, peach, or lemon-flavored, it’s easy to make and pairs perfectly with hearty dishes like this stir fry.

These drink options can really elevate the experience of your meal. Choose whichever suits the vibe you’re going forwhether you’re having a relaxed evening or celebrating with friends! Let me know if you’d like more pairing ideas.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Here are some storage and reheating tips to keep your Zucchini & Ground Beef Stir Fry fresh and delicious, whether you’re making it ahead or enjoying leftovers:

Storage Tips

1. Cool Before Storing
   Let the stir fry cool down to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. This helps prevent condensation in the container and keeps it from getting soggy.
2. Airtight Containers
   Store your stir fry in airtight containers to lock in freshness and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Refrigeration
   Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well, but it’s always best to enjoy it sooner rather than later for the best flavor and texture.
4. Freezing (Optional)
   If you want to make a larger batch for future meals, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 3 months. Just make sure to freeze in a tightly sealed container or zip-top bag. If freezing, skip the cheese until you’re ready to reheatit’ll melt better that way.

Reheating Tips

1. Stovetop Reheating
   The stovetop is your best bet for a quick and even reheat. Just add the stir fry to a non-stick skillet over low-medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if it needs some moisture.
2. Microwave Reheating
   If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works fine! Just place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (a microwave-safe lid or paper towel works), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If it seems dry, add a little water or broth.
3. Avoid Overheating
   When reheating, be sure not to overcook it. Heat just until it’s warmed through to preserve the texture of the zucchini and keep the beef juicy.
4. Revive with Fresh Herbs
   To freshen things up, sprinkle some fresh parsley, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime when reheatingit’ll bring back some of that fresh flavor!

Pro Tip for Freezing:

If you’re freezing, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can just grab and go when you’re ready for a quick meal!

These tips will help your stir fry last longer and taste as good as when it was first made. Whether you’re meal prepping or just saving leftovers, you’ll always have a tasty, easy-to-heat meal ready to go!

Try my Kimchi Beef Cauliflower Bowl recipe.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you’re in need of a no-fuss, delicious meal, grab some ground beef and zucchini, and give this stir fry a try! Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just enjoying a quick bite, this recipe will have you covered. And hey, if you end up loving it as much as I do (which I know you will), feel free to share it with your friends or drop a comment to let me know how it went. Happy cooking, and here’s to keeping things simple and tasty!

Recipe Card