This quick and tasty Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is packed with fresh flavors! With ingredients like bell peppers, olives, and spices, it feels like a sunny vacation on your plate.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in one pan? I enjoy serving it over rice or with warm pita—so good you might be tempted to go back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian alternatives like quinoa or lentils also work well if you’re aiming for a meatless dish.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil if you’re looking for a neutral taste or need a higher smoke point.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach gives this dish a nice color and nutrients. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain excess water.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a distinct tang. If you’re dairy-free, you can skip it or use a dairy-free cheese. Crumbled goat cheese is also a great substitute if you want to stick to a similar flavor profile.
How can I get my ground beef perfectly browned?
Getting beautifully browned beef is essential for flavor. Here’s my checklist to help you achieve that:
- Use medium-high heat and let the skillet warm up before adding the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to cook in batches if needed.
- Once the beef is added, resist the urge to stir too much — let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before flipping for even browning.
- If there’s excess fat, you can drain it, but a little adds flavor!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything to a delicious perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil:
Start by placing a large skillet or wok on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. You want the oil hot enough to cook the beef properly.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Once your oil is ready, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
3. Adding Garlic and Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic is fragrant! Then, toss in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Let these cook for 3-4 minutes until the bell peppers start to soften.
4. Mixing in the Spinach and Seasonings:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped spinach along with the dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and mix in the sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
6. Serving:
Dish out the stir fry onto plates and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese on top for that delicious Mediterranean flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may require a little less cooking time, so watch it closely to prevent overcooking.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute in This Recipe?
You can definitely swap out some veggies! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant would be delicious alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on how long they take to soften.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just warm it in a skillet or microwave until it’s heated through. You might want to add a splash of water to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use lentils for added texture. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to create a hearty, filling dish that’s full of flavor.
