Name: Hearty Beef & Veggie Skillet with Creamy Mayo Drizzle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Various
Ingredients: 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 medium acorn squash; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 cup pasta sauce; 1/4 tsp mustard powder; 1/2 lb (8 oz) ground beef; 1/2 medium sweet potato; 2 tbsp mayo

Instructions

1
Carefully cut the 1/2 acorn squash into 1/2-inch (1.2 cm) cubes, removing any seeds. Dice the 1/2 sweet potato into similar 1/2-inch cubes. (Consistent sizing helps all vegetables cook evenly at the same rate.)
⏱️ 7 minutes
Technique: preparing
2
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with your spatula and brown (cook until all pink is gone) the beef for 5-7 minutes. Once browned, there should be enough rendered fat (fat that has melted out of the beef) in the pan. If there is a lot of excess fat, carefully drain some, but leave enough to coat the bottom of the pan.
⏱️ 7 minutes
Technique: browning
3
Add the diced acorn squash and sweet potato to the skillet with the browned beef and rendered fat. Stir well to combine. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. (Covering helps the vegetables steam in their own moisture and the beef fat, making them tender without needing added liquid.)
⏱️ 12 minutes
Technique: sautéing, steaming
4
Uncover the skillet. Stir in the pasta sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (cook gently just below boiling) and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender (soft enough to pierce with a fork) and the sauce has thickened slightly. (The pasta sauce adds a rich, savory base to the skillet, and simmering helps all the flavors meld.)
⏱️ 7 minutes
Technique: simmering, seasoning
5
While the skillet simmers, prepare the creamy drizzle: In a small bowl, place the mayo. You can add a tiny pinch of salt or pepper if desired for extra flavor. (This simple drizzle adds a delightful richness and tang to the finished dish.)
⏱️ 1 minute
Technique: preparing
6
Remove the skillet from the heat. Divide the hearty beef and veggie mixture evenly into two serving bowls. Drizzle the creamy mayo over each serving just before eating. (The mayo drizzle adds a final touch of creamy texture and rich flavor.)
⏱️ 1 minute
Technique: serving, garnishing

💡 Chef's Tips

For extra browning on your vegetables, uncover the skillet for the last few minutes of cooking after they're tender, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate and edges to crisp.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ensure vegetables are diced to similar sizes for even cooking; larger pieces will take longer to tenderize.
• Don't skip covering the skillet during the initial vegetable cooking; it's key for tenderness without added liquids.
• Be careful not to scorch (burn) the bottom of the pan; if mixture starts sticking, reduce heat and stir more frequently.