Hamburger Zucchini
Hearty and flavorful hamburger zucchini stew combines savory beef, tender zucchini, and rich tomato juice, perfect for a comforting family meal or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry hamburger, chopped onion, and salt until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes or tomato juice and chopped zucchini to the skillet.
- Simmer until the zucchini is tender and flavors meld together.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic and bell peppers when frying the hamburger and onions. If you're short on zucchini, you can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. To enhance the dish, a dash of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs can elevate the taste. This recipe is also a great way to use leftover veggies, making it a versatile choice for your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hamburger Zucchini dish over cooked rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad or crusty bread pairs nicely to complete the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside the Budget Hamburger Dish for a comforting dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a lovely presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it's evenly heated. This dish also freezes well; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Zucchini contains roughly 580 calories, with 17g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to hamburger. It may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey can cook faster than beef.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes along with a bit of water to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, using vegetable broth can add a different flavor profile while still maintaining moisture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Hamburger Zucchini, consider mixing in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. This will enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish, giving it a nice kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).