Cheesy Ground Beef & Butternut Squash Skillet
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.
Melt the cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish & serve:
Remove from heat, top with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
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.