The “Simply Supper” Skillet: A True One-Dish Wonder

There are meals that demand your full attention, that require meticulous plating and a symphony of pans. And then there are the meals that are the unsung heroes of busy weeknights, the dishes that speak of comfort, efficiency, and pure deliciousness without a fuss. This skillet supper, often affectionately called “Simply Supper” in my own kitchen, is precisely that. I remember the first time I made it, a blur of exhausted exhaustion after a particularly grueling shift, staring into a sparsely stocked pantry. What emerged, however, was a revelation – a hearty, wholesome meal, cooked entirely in one pan, that tasted like I’d spent hours crafting it. It’s the kind of dish that earns its name, a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients come together with minimal effort.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: Serves 6 generously
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (can be made vegetarian)

Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the beauty of straightforward, readily available ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables and protein to shine through.

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or 1 pound sliced round steak, for a different texture)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 6 medium potatoes, scrubbed and sliced
• 3 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups sliced zucchini
• Water, as needed
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Equipment Needed

The beauty of a one-dish meal is its minimal equipment requirement. For this recipe, you’ll primarily need:

• A large, heavy-bottomed skillet with a lid (teflon or non-stick is ideal for ease)
• A knife and cutting board for preparing the vegetables and meat.

Instructions

The process is as straightforward as its name suggests. Each step builds upon the last, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in a single vessel.

1. Brown the Meat and Onion: Begin by placing your lean ground beef (or sliced round steak) into a large, heavy-bottomed, non-stick sprayed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the meat. Cook, breaking up the ground beef with a spoon as it browns, until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is softened and translucent. If using ground beef, it’s important to drain off any excess fat at this stage to ensure a lighter final dish.

2. Incorporate Potatoes and Tomatoes: Once the meat and onion are nicely browned and drained, it’s time to add the heartier vegetables. Stir in the sliced potatoes and the chopped fresh tomatoes. Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Give everything a good stir to combine.

3. Simmer the Base: Cover the skillet and allow this mixture to cook for 15 minutes. This initial cooking period allows the potatoes to begin softening and the tomatoes to break down, creating a flavorful base.

4. Add Zucchini and Tenderize: After 15 minutes, stir in the sliced zucchini. If the mixture appears dry or you notice the potatoes are starting to stick, add a splash of water – just enough to create a bit of steam and prevent sticking, usually about 1/4 to 1/2 cup. Cover the skillet again and continue to simmer until both the potatoes and zucchini are tender. This typically takes another 10-15 minutes, but it’s always best to check for tenderness by piercing a potato slice with a fork.

5. Final Touches and Serving: Once the vegetables are perfectly tender and the flavors have melded beautifully, your “Simply Supper” is ready.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While this dish is designed for simplicity, a few chef-inspired touches can elevate it even further.

• Potato Prep: For quicker cooking and a more integrated texture, consider slicing the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. If you prefer a heartier bite, thicker slices are also perfectly acceptable. Ensure they are evenly sliced for uniform cooking.
• Tomato Power: Using ripe, juicy tomatoes will contribute more liquid and flavor to the dish. If your tomatoes are a bit less ripe, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste when you add the fresh tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
• Zucchini Management: Zucchini can release a surprising amount of water. If you find your dish is becoming too soupy, remove the lid for the last few minutes of cooking to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate.
• Herbaceous Boost: While not in the original recipe, a pinch of dried oregano or a sprig of fresh thyme added with the potatoes can introduce a lovely herbaceous note.
• Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the salt can offer a subtle kick.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This one-dish meal is wonderfully self-contained, making it perfect for a no-fuss presentation.

Serve the “Simply Supper” directly from the skillet to the table, adding a rustic charm. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if you choose to use it, adds a delightful salty, nutty finish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, hot off the stove.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water or broth if it seems a bit dry. You can also microwave it, but be mindful of overcooking the vegetables.

Nutritional Information

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	334.2 kcal
Calories from Fat	72 kcal
Total Fat	8.1 g	12%
Saturated Fat	3.2 g	16%
Cholesterol	49.1 mg	16%
Sodium	172.9 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	45.4 g	15%
Dietary Fiber	6.9 g	27%
Sugars	6.2 g	24%
Protein	21.4 g	42%

Variations & Substitutions

The beauty of “Simply Supper” lies in its inherent flexibility.

• Vegetarian Option: For a delicious vegetarian rendition, simply omit the beef and increase the quantity of vegetables. You could add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or cannellini beans along with the potatoes to provide a satisfying protein boost. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach wilted in at the end would also be welcome additions.
• Heartier Grains: For a more substantial meal, serve this skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
• Different Meats: While beef is classic, ground turkey, ground chicken, or even crumbled Italian sausage could be used with delicious results. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color, though they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
A: You can substitute canned diced tomatoes (undrained) for the fresh tomatoes. You might need to adjust the seasoning slightly.

Q: How can I make this dish more flavorful?
A: Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce when browning the meat for an extra layer of umami.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While best enjoyed fresh, you can chop your vegetables and brown the meat ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine and cook according to the instructions when you’re ready to eat.

Q: My potatoes are taking a long time to cook. What can I do?
A: Ensure your potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly. If they are still taking too long, you can par-boil them for about 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet.

Final Thoughts

There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from creating a complete, nourishing meal from start to finish in a single pan. This “Simply Supper” skillet is a testament to that philosophy – a humble yet incredibly satisfying dish that proves good food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to, a reliable friend in the kitchen. I encourage you to try it, to make it your own, and to savor the ease and deliciousness it brings to your table. It’s perfect on its own, but a simple side salad or a crusty piece of bread to sop up any juices would be a delightful accompaniment. Enjoy!