This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty and quick meal. It’s packed with juicy beef, colorful veggies, and bold spices that make your taste buds dance!
You’ll love how easy this dish comes together—just brown the beef, toss in the veggies, and stir! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful but simple.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer an 80/20 mix for a balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works, but you might need to add a bit more oil for flavor. Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes if you’re going for something lighter.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for cooking due to its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out, canola oil or avocado oil can also work well. Just keep in mind that they have different taste profiles.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and vibrant, red bell peppers add color and taste. If you can’t find them, yellow or orange peppers can also provide sweetness. Even zucchini or eggplant could work if you want to switch it up!
Feta Cheese: It gives a creamy and tangy touch. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta. You could use grated Parmesan for a different flavor altogether.
How Do I Ensure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef safely and well can be tricky. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic. Sauté it alone for 30 seconds before adding the beef to infuse the oil.
- Cook the beef until it’s fully browned. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir often to break it into smaller pieces.
- Check for any excess fat after cooking. Draining this can help reduce greasiness.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry will take about 15 minutes in preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, feel free to drain some excess fat.
3. Add the Bell Pepper:
Now, toss in the diced red bell pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pepper starts to soften.
4. Mix in the Tomatoes and Spices:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften slightly. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Add the Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach to the mix. Stir it all together until the spinach wilts down, which will take about 2 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutrients to your dish!
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and crumbled feta cheese over the top of your stir fry. Serve it warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10 or even ground turkey. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might require a little extra olive oil to keep the dish moist and flavorful, especially without the extra fat from the 80/20 mix.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try using goat cheese, which has a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free alternative, look for plant-based feta or nutritional yeast, which can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Add Additional Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your stir fry with other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking, and add them along with the bell pepper in step 3.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from drying out. Enjoy it again as is, or serve it on a bed of rice or quinoa for a quick meal!
