This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is like a tasty party in one pan! It combines juicy ground beef with colorful veggies and zesty spices, making it both healthy and fun to eat.
I love how quick this meal comes together—perfect for busy nights when I need dinner fast. Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ve got a delicious dish everyone will enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 beef for a balance of flavor and moisture. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though the taste will be different.
Olive Oil: This oil adds a lovely flavor to the dish. You might substitute it with avocado oil if you’re looking for a higher smoke point or other oils like grapeseed, but remember that it won’t have the same taste.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and crunchy, red bell peppers are great here. If you don’t have them, yellow or orange peppers would work well too. Even zucchini can be a tasty substitute.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for wilting into the stir fry. If you only have frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before adding. Kale is another good substitute, but it will require a bit longer to cook.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tangy touch. If you don’t have any, goat cheese or even cottage cheese can work if you’re looking for a similar texture.
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef just right can make all the difference. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a hot skillet and add the olive oil first to get it warmed up.
- Once hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Make sure to spread it out in the pan to cook evenly.
- Cook until it turns brown and there’s no more pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain any excess grease if using high-fat beef; this will make your dish healthier.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or lean)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time at all, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink bits left in your beef!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked through, add in the minced garlic. Stir it for about a minute until you can smell the lovely aroma. This makes everything taste so good!
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it gets a bit softer. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, freshly chopped spinach, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Season Up:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to make sure all the ingredients are nicely combined.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once all the flavors meld together, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer your stir fry to a serving dish and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry warm. It’s great on its own or you can pair it with pita bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as these meats may cook faster than beef. Follow the same instructions, and season well to enhance the flavors!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. For a different flavor profile, you could also use shredded mozzarella or ricotta, although the texture will be different.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If freezing, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to enjoy later. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just make sure to cook them according to their tenderness; add firmer veggies earlier in the cooking process and softer ones, like spinach and tomatoes, later on.
