Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Ground beef cooked with zucchini in a fragrant tomato sauce seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika for a cozy Whole30 dinner. This whole30-inspired beef (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 35 minutes blends 85% lean ground beef, no salt added canned diced tomatoes, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking up with a spoon, for 6-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 2 diced medium zucchinis (1/2-inch cubes), 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini softens.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 14 oz canned diced tomatoes and simmer for 8-10 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the beef and zucchini.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Sautéed Ground Beef with Zucchini and Spiced Tomato Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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