Ground Beef, Butternut Squash & Spinach Skillet

• total time: 19 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)

3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

3–4 cups fresh spinach (or kale)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

Salt & pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions

Cook the Butternut Squash:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.

Add the cubed butternut squash and a pinch of salt & pepper.

Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef:

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and diced onion.

Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (5–7 minutes).

Add garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Combine Everything:

Add the cooked squash back to the pan.

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).

Add Cheese (Optional):

Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Cover the skillet and cook on low for 2–3 minutes until melted.

Tips:

Add chili flakes for heat.

Swap squash for sweet potato or zucchini.

Serve over rice, quinoa, or enjoy as is!

Let me know if you want a vegetarian version or one with a sauce like creamy garlic or tomato!