This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a treat! It’s packed with ground beef, colorful veggies, and topped with tasty spices for that extra zing. Quick to cook, it’s perfect for busy nights!
I love how I can throw everything in one pan and whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, the flavors remind me of summer days! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter meal.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for cooking, but you can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a different flavor profile.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness, but feel free to use green peppers if that’s what you have. You can even use other veggies like carrots or spinach!
Zucchini: Zucchini helps to bulk up the stir fry. If you don’t have it, try using eggplant or a handful of frozen mixed vegetables.
Spices: For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning instead of or in addition to oregano. I also love adding a pinch of chili flakes for some heat!
How Can I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef just right is essential for this dish! Here are steps to get protein that’s tasty and juicy:
- Begin by breaking the meat apart with a spoon while it cooks. This avoids clumps and allows it to brown evenly.
- Cook until fully browned—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Look for no pink spots!
- If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off, but a little fat adds flavor, so don’t stress it.
Cooking it thoroughly not only enhances the flavor but also ensures safety. Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw meat!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish—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. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sizzle a drop of water!
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook it for about 3 minutes or until it becomes translucent and slightly soft. This will help build a delicious flavor base.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
4. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain some off.
5. Veggie Time:
Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers and zucchini. Cook these for about 5 minutes until they start to soften up. Get those colors mixing!
6. Add Flavor:
Now for the fun part! Add the cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine the spices and veggies with the beef.
7. Meld the Flavors:
Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly and all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
8. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stir fry and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh pop of flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stir fry hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if you like. It pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again!
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times for firmer vegetables like carrots to ensure everything cooks evenly.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This stir fry goes great with rice, quinoa, or couscous for a filling meal. You can also serve it with warm pita bread or atop a fresh salad for a lighter option.
