This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish that mixes ground beef with colorful veggies and bold flavors like garlic and oregano. It’s a meal that just bursts with goodness!
If you’re like me and love a one-pan wonder, this is perfect. It’s easy to whip up on busy nights, and it tastes even better leftover. Who doesn’t love a meal that makes cooking easy? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe is all about the flavor of ground beef. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a meat substitute like meatless crumbles.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach works too—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using. I love adding kale for an extra punch of flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: I enjoy the sweetness and burst they offer in this dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a good substitute, just be cautious of excess liquid.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese or even ricotta for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cheese alternative.
Spices (Oregano, Cumin, Paprika): These spices bring warmth and depth. Feel free to mix the spices up; thyme or basil can brighten things up, while chili powder adds heat if you like it spicy!
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can sometimes be tricky. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Start with medium-high heat to quickly brown the meat. This helps lock in flavor.
- Break it up thoroughly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Don’t hesitate; the more you stir, the better the texture.
- Look for a nice brown color all around, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your meal in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell that wonderful aroma.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, increase the heat to high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat if there’s a lot in the pan.
3. Add the Veggies and Seasoning:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Add the dried oregano, ground cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the spinach has wilted down.
4. Season and Finish:
Now it’s time to season with salt and pepper to your taste. When you’re ready, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a lovely flavor!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your stir fry with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve warm—enjoy it on its own or with a side of rice or pita bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose—always ensure it’s fully cooked to a safe internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Alternatively, you could use kale or Swiss chard as a substitute for a similar texture and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be delicious served cold in a salad!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! To create a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use a mix of beans and lentils for protein. You can enhance the flavors with additional spices and ensure the feta is replaced with a plant-based alternative if you want it to be fully vegan.
