There’s something special about a dish that brings together comforting flavors, nourishing ingredients, and simple cooking. This recipe does exactly that, combining tender ground beef, sweet butternut squash, and warm spices that simmer into the perfect hearty meal. Paired with fluffy couscous and finished with fresh herbs, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl. This dish comes together quickly and is the perfect midweek dinner recipe when you find yourself running low on time. It’s got the grains, the protein and the fiber making it a delicious balanced meal (although throwing in a salad on the side for some extra veggies is never a bad idea!). It’s a great option for a meal when you’re limited on ingredients, but craving wholesome and flavorful nourishment.
Squash & Ground Beef with Couscous Ingredients:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil– This is used when sautéing the onion and garlic, creating a rich, flavorful base for the dish. Always choose extra virgin olive oil as it’s the least processed form, packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats that enhance both taste and nutrition.
Yellow Onion– Onions bring depth and natural sweetness to any recipe. When sautéed with garlic, they form the aromatic foundation that gives this dish its rich, savory flavor.
Garlic– A kitchen essential, garlic elevates every bite with its bold, earthy flavor. Beyond taste, it’s known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory health benefits.
Extra Lean Ground Beef– A great source of protein and iron, extra lean ground beef keeps this recipe hearty and satisfying without the excess fat. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, complementing the lighter, wholesome ingredients in the dish. Feel free to mix it up with a meat you may prefer or enjoy more. Turkey works great too!
Butternut Squash– Naturally sweet and velvety, butternut squash adds beautiful color, flavor, and creaminess. It’s also loaded with vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious and comforting addition, especially this time of year.
Smoked Paprika– This spice brings a subtle smokiness and depth that ties the dish together. But remember, a little goes a long way! It enhances warmth and flavor while adding a gorgeous color to your plate.
Couscous– Light, fluffy, and versatile, couscous is a great compliment to the meat as it soaks up all the delicious flavors in this recipe. It’s quick to prepare and a perfect base for a dish like this.
Parsley– Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness at the end. It’s more than a garnish, its light, peppery flavor balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Yellow Onion (small, diced)
- 1 Garlic (clove, minced)
- 10 ozs Extra Lean Ground Beef (we used turkey)
- 2 cups Butternut Squash (peeled, seeds removed, cubed)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup Couscous (dry)
- 2 tbsps Parsley (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for five minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the beef and cook for 10 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the squash and cook for another minute.
- Add the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is cooked through and the flavors have combined.
- Meanwhile, cook the couscous according to the package instructions.
- Stir the parsley into the beef mixture. Divide the couscous and beef evenly between plates. Garnish with extra parsley and enjoy!
Notes:
- Leftovers- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Serving Size- One serving is approximately half a cup of couscous and one heaping cup of the beef mixture.
- No Couscous- Use quinoa instead.
Health Insights:
- Nutrient-Dense- The combination of extra lean ground beef, butternut squash, and couscous provides a rich array of essential nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and well-being.
- Antioxidants- The inclusion of garlic, smoked paprika, and parsley contributes to the antioxidant content of the dish, which can help combat oxidative stress and support immune function.
- Heart Health- The use of extra virgin olive oil and the balance of healthy fats from the ingredients promote heart health by potentially improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation.
