This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is tasty and super simple! Full of spices and colorful veggies, it brings a little sunshine to your dinner table.
I love that it takes only about 30 minutes to make. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day. Who doesn’t love a quick and yummy meal? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work just as well. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and crunch. However, you can substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers, or even zucchini for a different twist.
Fresh Spinach: Provides a healthy boost. You could also use kale or Swiss chard. If you don’t have fresh greens, frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a pop of flavor and color. If unavailable, diced canned tomatoes or chopped regular tomatoes are a good alternative.
Feta Cheese: This gives a tangy taste. If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella can work as tasty substitutes.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can seem tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- First, break the beef apart in the skillet using a wooden spoon. This helps it cook evenly.
- Make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned. No pink should remain, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
- Don’t rush! Cooking it on medium-high heat helps render the fat for extra flavor.
- Season the beef while it’s cooking to infuse flavor. Salt and pepper, along with other spices, can really elevate the dish.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly browned and flavorful beef every time! Enjoy your stir fry! 😊
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking and assembling everything. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will help get the pan ready for cooking your ingredients. You want it to shimmer a bit but not smoke, so keep an eye on it!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step builds a nice flavor base for the stir fry.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around well, and let it cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin for that Mediterranean flavor!
4. Add the Veggies:
Now stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and the veggies are tender. All those colors will brighten up your dish!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the veggies are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, tangy kick. Give it one last stir if you’d like!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the stir fry warm, and dig in to enjoy the fresh Mediterranean flavors. This dish is not only quick and easy but also full of healthy ingredients. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Can I Use Another Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure it’s cooked through and browned appropriately.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the beef. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce for those who want an extra kick!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This stir fry is delicious on its own, but you can serve it over rice, quinoa, or whole grain pita for a heartier meal. It pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrients!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let them cool first, then place in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
