Cheesy Ground Beef & Butternut Squash Skillet

Table of Contents

This hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combines savory ground beef, tender butternut squash, and gooey melted cheese for a comforting and nutritious dish. Packed with warm spices and finished with fresh herbs, this easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a wholesome, low-carb option that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort.

⏱️ Time Required:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

1 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Heat oil:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes until softened.

Brown the beef:

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add seasoning:

Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

Cook the squash:

Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet, stirring to coat in the seasonings. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef & Butternut Squash Skillet

✅ Choose the Right Squash: Use fresh butternut squash and cut it into evenly sized cubes for even cooking. Frozen squash can also work but may need less cooking time.

✅ Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 85% lean beef for a balance of flavor and less grease. If using fattier meat, drain excess grease before adding the squash.

✅ Season Well: Spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder add depth. For a smoky kick, try a dash of chipotle powder.

✅ Melt the Cheese Properly: After adding the cheese, cover the skillet with a lid for a minute to help it melt evenly over the dish.

✅ Make it a Full Meal: Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a balanced plate.

Q/A – Common Questions

❓ Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

❓ How can I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

❓ What cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and add great flavor.

❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether and add avocado for creaminess.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Butternut Squash Skillet – Nutrition Information

(Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings per recipe. Exact values may vary based on ingredients used.)

Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sugar: ~4g
Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~9g
Cholesterol: ~75mg
Sodium: ~450mg (varies with seasoning)
Calcium: ~150mg (depends on cheese used)

Health Benefits:

✅ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and keeps you full.
✅ Rich in Fiber – Butternut squash adds fiber, aiding digestion.
✅ Low in Carbs (compared to pasta or rice dishes) – Good for balanced eating.
✅ Good Source of Vitamins – Butternut squash provides Vitamin A, C, and potassium.