This vibrant Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is packed with flavor! With juicy beef, fresh veggies, and zesty herbs, it’s a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love.
Plus, you can whip it up in no time—perfect for busy nights! I like to serve it over rice or pasta for a hearty dinner. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing richness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives. For a vegetarian twist, try using crumbled tofu or lentils instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, you can use regular tomatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces. Sun-dried tomatoes also work for a deeper flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts down nicely and adds nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard are good substitutes. Both will add a different texture but still fit well with the dish.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty, creamy element. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan feta or even tahini can be a nice touch for creaminess without the dairy.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly for This Stir Fry?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky, but following a few steps will ensure it turns out great. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating olive oil over medium heat; this helps the beef cook evenly.
- Add the onions and garlic first. Let them sauté until they are soft before adding the beef. This builds a nice base flavor.
- When you add the beef, use a spoon to break it up. Avoid stirring too much before it’s browned; this helps develop more flavor.
- Once it’s browned, drain excess fat if necessary. Remember, some fat can add flavor, but too much can make the dish greasy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked ground beef ready for your stir fry!
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean stir fry will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping and another 15 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion looks translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown for about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, be sure to drain it off. You want your beef nicely browned, not swimming in grease!
3. Add the Veggies and Spices:
Now it’s time to brighten the dish! Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir it into the mixture until it wilts down—this should take about 2 minutes. It adds a great pop of color and nutrients to your stir fry!
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in most of the crumbled feta cheese, saving a little for garnish. This will add a delicious creamy texture to the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the stir fry into bowls or onto plates while it’s still warm. Garnish with the reserved feta cheese and sprinkle some chopped parsley or green onions on top if you like. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean ground beef stir fry!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time; lean proteins like turkey can cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stir Fry?
Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant can work well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary, adding heartier veggies like carrots earlier in the cooking process for more even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With This Stir Fry?
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry pairs nicely with couscous, quinoa, or even a side of warm pita bread. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad.
