This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is packed with flavors! Tender beef mixed with colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini gives your meal a healthy twist.
It’s quick to make too—just toss everything in the pan, and you’re ready in no time! I love serving it over rice or quinoa for a filling dinner that my family enjoys. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer plant-based, try lentils or crumbled tofu as a meat substitute, seasoned well to mimic the flavor of beef.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor. If you have a sensitivity to it or want a different taste, avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a quick alternative—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch but if it’s not available, kale is a hearty substitute. Just make sure to cook it a bit longer as it’s tougher than spinach.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a salty creaminess to the dish. If you want a different flavor, you can use goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Flavorful?
Getting the most flavor from your ground beef is important! Here are a few tips to ensure it’s enjoyable:
- Use high-quality ground beef for better flavor.
- Don’t rush the browning process; let it cook until nicely browned for richer flavor.
- Add salt and pepper during cooking. This infuses the meat with seasoning.
- Mix in your spices (like dried oregano) after the meat is browned. This helps release their essential oils, enhancing the overall taste.
Following these tips can make a noticeable difference in your stir fry, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet full of flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil and Sautéing Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
2. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart while it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully from the skillet.
3. Adding Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is slightly softened. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook these for another 3 minutes until they soften and begin to release their juicy goodness.
4. Finishing Up:
Now, add the fresh spinach and dried oregano to the pan. Cook everything together until the spinach wilts down, which will only take about 2 minutes. It’s amazing how much it shrinks!
5. Seasoning and Garnishing:
Season the stir fry with salt and black pepper to taste. Once it’s all mixed in, remove the pan from heat and stir in most of the chopped green onions—save a few for garnishing later.
6. Time to Serve!
Scoop the delicious mixture onto plates. Top each serving with crispy crumbled feta and the reserved green onions for added flavor and freshness. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or alongside pita bread!
Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired stir fry that’s quick and easy for any weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so watch the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.
Is This Stir Fry Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Just add a splash of water if it seems dry when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even some eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re adding denser vegetables.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
