Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Zesty Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe for Dinner

Culinary adventures spark with this mediterranean ground beef stir fry that blends robust flavors from coastal regions.

Spices dance across seared meat, creating a dynamic fusion of herbs and proteins.

Tender beef mingles with colorful vegetables, promising a quick and satisfying meal.

Mediterranean cuisines inspire innovative cooking techniques that make dinner preparation effortless and exciting.

Vibrant ingredients emerge as key players in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Lean ground beef becomes the perfect canvas for an explosion of aromatic seasonings.

You’ll find yourself transported to sun-drenched kitchens with each delectable bite.

Let’s transform an ordinary evening into a Mediterranean feast that delights every sense.

Beef Stir Fry With Mediterranean Flavor You’ll Crave

Quick and Easy Weeknight Winner: Whip up this Mediterranean ground beef stir fry in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a delicious, nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with lean protein from ground beef, colorful vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and heart-healthy olive oil, this one-pan dish delivers a balanced, wholesome dinner in a single skillet.

Flavor Explosion: Elevate your taste buds with a vibrant blend of Mediterranean spices – oregano, cumin, and paprika – complemented by tangy feta cheese and bright lemon juice, creating a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that will transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast.

Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using just one skillet means less washing up, making this recipe a dream for those who hate kitchen cleanup and want to spend more time enjoying their meal than scrubbing pots and pans.

Ground Beef Stir Fry Mediterranean Style Ingredients

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: Hearty base protein, choose lean for healthier option, provides rich meaty flavor.
Vegetables:
  • Red Onion, Zucchini, Red Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables adding color and nutritional value, select crisp and vibrant produce for best texture.
  • Garlic: Aromatic flavor enhancer, adds depth and traditional Mediterranean taste.
Herbs and Spices:
  • Oregano, Cumin, Paprika: Classic Mediterranean spice blend, creates warm and complex flavor profile.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasoning for balancing and enhancing overall taste.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Lemon Juice: Bright, tangy element that adds freshness and cuts through richness.
  • Feta Cheese: Creamy and salty cheese typical in Mediterranean cuisine, provides tangy contrast.
  • Fresh Parsley: Herb garnish that adds color and fresh herbal note.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil: Traditional Mediterranean cooking fat, provides smooth cooking surface and additional flavor.

Mediterranean Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Grab a large skillet and warm it over medium-high heat.

Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula while cooking.

Keep stirring until the meat turns a deep golden brown and cooks completely through.

Once done, drain away any extra fat and move the beef to a clean plate.

Step 2: Soften the Aromatics

Using the same skillet, pour in olive oil and reduce heat to medium.

Drop in sliced red onions and let them become tender and translucent.

After a couple minutes, add minced garlic and let it sizzle briefly, releasing its wonderful fragrance.

Step 3: Toss in Colorful Vegetables

Add these vibrant veggies to the skillet:
  • Sliced zucchini
  • Chopped red bell pepper

Cook the vegetables until they’re just tender but still maintain a slight crunch.

Return the cooked beef back into the skillet.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Sprinkle these seasonings over the mixture:
  • Dried oregano
  • Ground cumin
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything together and let the flavors mingle for a few minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the skillet from heat.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stir fry.

Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Serve hot and enjoy your Mediterranean adventure!

Stir-Fry Tips for Mediterranean Beef with Bold Spices

  • Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned and crumbled to develop rich, deep flavors and prevent clumping during cooking.
  • Add zucchini and bell peppers later to maintain their crisp texture and prevent overcooking, preserving their vibrant colors and nutrients.
  • Adjust the oregano, cumin, and paprika to your taste preferences, but keep the proportions balanced for authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Crumble the feta cheese just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from becoming too melty or dry.
  • Use the same skillet for beef and vegetables to maximize flavor retention and minimize dishwashing time, capturing all the delicious browned bits.

Reheat Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Warm individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and prevent dryness.
  • Revive the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture and restore the original vibrant flavors.
  • Watch carefully while reheating to maintain the beef's tenderness and prevent vegetables from becoming mushy or losing their texture.

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Matches

  • Elevate Wine Pairing: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Greek Agiorgitiko or Spanish Tempranillo to complement the beef's richness and Mediterranean spices.
  • Mediterranean Beer Match: Select a crisp, light Greek Mythos lager or a Belgian-style wheat beer that refreshes the palate and balances the dish's robust flavors.
  • Herb-Infused Cocktail Companion: Mix a zesty gin cocktail with fresh lemon, rosemary, and a splash of olive brine to echo the recipe's Mediterranean herbs and citrus notes.
  • Bright Side Beverage: Enjoy a chilled Greek white wine like Assyrtiko, which offers bright acidity and mineral undertones that cut through the beef's richness.

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry Tweaks

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or firm tofu, maintaining the Mediterranean spice profile and vegetable mix.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: Swap zucchini for cauliflower rice and use extra-lean ground beef, keeping the herb and spice blend intact for low-carb dieters.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all spices and ingredients are certified gluten-free, with no modifications needed to the original cooking method.
  • Lamb Lovers' Version: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a richer, more intense Mediterranean flavor profile that complements the existing herbs and vegetables.

FAQs

  • What herbs and spices are used in this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?

The recipe uses oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, which create a classic Mediterranean flavor profile that adds depth and warmth to the dish.

  • Is this recipe considered a healthy meal option?

Yes, it’s relatively healthy with lean ground beef, nutrient-rich vegetables like zucchini and red bell peppers, and minimal added fats, providing a balanced mix of protein and vegetables.

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground lamb or ground turkey are excellent alternatives that work well with Mediterranean seasonings and can be prepared using the same cooking method.

  • How can I make this dish more filling?

Consider serving the stir fry over rice, quinoa, or with warm pita bread to create a more substantial meal that absorbs the delicious spices and juices from the skillet.

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Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe


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4.5 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry whisks diners on a culinary journey through sun-drenched coastal landscapes. Fragrant spices and fresh herbs dance with tender beef, promising a quick, flavorful meal that brings Mediterranean warmth to your table.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

Seasonings and Garnishes:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup (60 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and sear the ground beef until thoroughly browned, approximately 7-8 minutes. Crumble the meat using a spatula and eliminate excess grease.
  2. Transfer the cooked beef to a separate plate and utilize the same skillet for subsequent preparation.
  3. Reduce skillet heat to medium and drizzle with olive oil. Introduce sliced red onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened.
  4. Incorporate minced garlic and allow it to release its aromatic essence for approximately 30-45 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
  5. Add zucchini and red bell pepper slices to the skillet, allowing vegetables to become tender but maintain a slight crispness, roughly 4-5 minutes.
  6. Reintroduce the previously cooked ground beef into the vegetable mixture, creating a harmonious blend of proteins and produce.
  7. Season the mixture with oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently fold the spices throughout the skillet’s contents.
  8. After 2-3 minutes of additional cooking and integrating flavors, remove the skillet from heat.
  9. Finish the dish by drizzling fresh lemon juice over the stir fry, which will brighten and elevate the overall flavor profile.
  10. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
  • Drain beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy texture and ensure clean, vibrant flavors in the final stir fry.
  • Chop vegetables uniformly to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Customize the spice blend by adjusting oregano, cumin, and paprika quantities to match personal taste preferences or regional Mediterranean flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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