Cheesy Tex-Mex Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic
finely minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can diced tomatoes
14.5-ounces
- 1 can black
pinto, or white beans, drained and rinsed, 15-ounces
- 1 can green chiles
drained, 4-ounces
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoons oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
smoked or sweet
- 4 cups finely chopped zucchini
about 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 to 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
- Tortilla or corn chips
- Sour cream
- Fresh
chopped cilantro
- Avocados
- Salsa
- Olives
Directions
- 1
In a large, 12-inch nonstick skillet (it will be very full by the end, so don't use a smaller size) over medium heat, brown the ground beef, onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Break the meat into small pieces and cook until no longer pink. Drain grease.
- 2
Add corn, tomatoes, beans, chiles, cumin, chili powder, oregano and paprika. Stir to combine.
- 3
Add the zucchini and stir until evenly combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring often, until the ingredients are heated through and the zucchini is tender (I only cook for a few minutes so the zucchini stays al dente; cook longer if you want the zucchini softer).
- 4
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- 5
Turn the heat to low. Pat the zucchini mixture into a mostly even layer, sprinkle with cheese, cover with a lid or loosely with foil, and let rest on the heat until the cheese is melted, 3-4 minutes.
- 6
Serve warm with toppings of choice: chips, sour cream, cilantro, olives, avocados, salsa, etc.
Cheesy Tex-Mex Zucchini Skillet
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 106 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Looking for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that uses up those abundant garden zucchinis? This Cheesy Tex-Mex Zucchini Skillet delivers authentic, hearty flavors perfect for any weeknight, bringing the vibrant taste of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your table.
This recipe shines because it brings together lean protein, fresh zucchini, and a vibrant blend of Tex-Mex seasonings in one pan. The combination of savory ground meat, sweet corn, and hearty beans, all blanketed in melty cheese, makes for an incredibly comforting and balanced dish that’s both delicious and fulfilling.
Expect a savory, robust flavor profile with a delightful mix of textures. The ground beef or turkey provides a satisfying base, complemented by the tender, slightly sweet zucchini and the hearty bite of black, pinto, or white beans. Tangy diced tomatoes and mild or spicy green chiles add a layer of complexity, while the blend of cumin, chili powder, oregano, and paprika creates a truly authentic Tex-Mex aroma and taste. Finally, a generous layer of shredded Mexican-blend cheese melts into a creamy, gooey topping, tying all the vibrant ingredients together into a harmonious skillet meal.
Customization & Variations
- Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option, or use extra beans and vegetables for a heartier vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Adjust the heat to your liking with mild or spicy green chiles.
- Experiment with black, pinto, or white beans—whichever you prefer or have on hand. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach if you wish.
Serve this Cheesy Tex-Mex Zucchini Skillet hot from the pan, garnished generously with your favorite Tex-Mex toppings. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner or a cozy night in, easily adaptable to personal tastes.