Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Tasty Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe for Dinner

Weeknight dinners demand quick, flavorful solutions that pack a punch of excitement, and this Mediterranean ground beef stir fry recipe delivers an explosion of taste in every bite.

Aromatic spices dance through sizzling meat, creating a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to coastal Mediterranean kitchens.

Rich, tender ground beef mingles with colorful vegetables, releasing an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Herbs like oregano and thyme add depth and authenticity to this simple yet spectacular dish.

Cooking becomes an adventure when you blend traditional techniques with bold ingredients.

Each forkful promises a delightful journey through Mediterranean culinary traditions.

Serve this vibrant stir fry and watch as your meal becomes the centerpiece of an unforgettable dining experience.

Reasons You’ll Enjoy This Ground Beef Stir Fry

Reasons You’ll Enjoy This Ground Beef Stir Fry
  • Perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Packed with protein from ground beef, iron-rich spinach, and vibrant vegetables that boost overall health and wellness.
  • Uses just one pan for the entire cooking process, making post-meal cleanup super easy and stress-free.
  • Mediterranean spices and feta cheese create a mouthwatering combination that transforms simple ground beef into an exciting, restaurant-worthy dish.

What You’ll Need for Mediterranean Stir Fry

Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A protein-packed base that provides rich flavor and substantial texture to the Mediterranean stir fry.
  • Spinach: A nutritious green vegetable that adds vibrant color and delicate leafy goodness to the dish.
  • Feta Cheese: A tangy and creamy Mediterranean cheese that brings a distinctive sharp flavor profile.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Red Bell Pepper, Cherry Tomatoes: Colorful vegetables that contribute sweet and slightly acidic notes to the stir fry.
  • Garlic, Green Onion: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall depth and complexity of the recipe's flavor.
Seasonings and Herbs:
  • Dried Oregano, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Classic Mediterranean seasonings that provide essential seasoning and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Olive Oil: A traditional Mediterranean cooking oil that helps sauté ingredients and adds a subtle, rich undertone to the dish.

How to Cook Ground Beef Stir Fry

How to Cook Ground Beef Stir Fry

Step 1: Sizzle Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add:
  • Red bell pepper
  • Cherry tomatoes

Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tomatoes start blistering and releasing their juices.

Step 2: Enhance Aromatics

Stir in:
  • Minced garlic
  • White parts of green onions

Cook for one minute until garlic becomes fragrant without browning.

Step 3: Incorporate Leafy Greens

Add spinach to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes until leaves wilt completely.

Transfer vegetables to a separate plate.

Step 4: Brown the Protein

In the same skillet, cook ground beef with:
  • Dried oregano
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper

Break meat into small pieces and cook 6-8 minutes until fully browned.

Drain excess fat.

Step 5: Combine Components

Return previously cooked vegetables to the pan with beef.

Add green parts of green onions and warm together for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Present

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the stir fry.

Serve hot and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors.

Helpful Tricks for Stir Fry Perfection

Helpful Tricks for Stir Fry Perfection
  • Pat ground beef with paper towels after cooking to remove extra grease, ensuring a cleaner, less oily final dish.
  • Crush dried oregano between your fingers before adding to release more robust, aromatic flavors that enhance the Mediterranean profile.
  • Squeeze excess moisture from spinach after wilting to maintain a crisp texture and prevent a watery stir fry.
  • Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra heat and depth of flavor if you enjoy more intense Mediterranean seasonings.
  • Choose high-quality, creamy feta cheese from sheep's or goat's milk for a more authentic and rich topping that complements the beef beautifully.

How to Handle Leftovers from Stir Fry

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
  • Transfer cooled stir fry to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Frozen portions help preserve the meal for later enjoyment.
  • Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Warm a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stir fry, stirring gently to prevent sticking and distribute heat evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thoroughly heated, maintaining the original texture and flavor.

Best Matches for Mediterranean Beef Stir Fry

  • Flavor-Boosting Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, medium-bodied Mediterranean red wine like Greek Agiorgitiko or Spanish Tempranillo to complement the beef's richness and cut through its savory profile.
  • Herb-Infused Side Companion: Prepare a quick Greek-style quinoa salad with fresh mint, parsley, and lemon zest to add brightness and provide a light, refreshing counterpoint to the hearty stir fry.
  • Cooling Yogurt Accent: Whip up a quick tzatziki sauce with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, and dill to offer a cool, tangy dip that balances the warm, spiced beef and adds a creamy texture to each bite.
  • Zesty Bread Complement: Serve with warm, toasted pita bread or crusty sourdough to soak up the delicious pan juices and provide a satisfying textural contrast to the tender beef and wilted greens.

Variations to Shake Up Your Beef Stir Fry

  • Low-Carb Greek Bowl: Replace the tomatoes and bell peppers with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that keeps the Mediterranean flavors intact.
  • Lamb Mediterranean Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a richer, more intense flavor profile that enhances the traditional Mediterranean taste.
  • Vegetarian Protein Power: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or crumbled extra-firm tofu, adding chickpeas for extra protein and texture while maintaining the original recipe's spirit.
  • Dairy-Free Mediterranean Option: Skip the feta cheese and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs while preserving the dish's vibrant Mediterranean essence.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or lamb works perfectly as alternatives to beef. Each meat brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

  • Is this recipe considered healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with lean protein from the beef, nutrient-rich spinach, and antioxidant-filled bell peppers. The olive oil adds healthy fats, making it a balanced meal.

  • What makes this a Mediterranean-style dish?

The combination of ingredients like feta cheese, oregano, olive oil, and fresh vegetables reflects traditional Mediterranean cooking techniques and flavor combinations.

  • How spicy is this stir fry?

This recipe is mild with no intense heat. If you want more kick, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef.

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Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe


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4.8 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savor Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry, a culinary journey blending robust spices and fresh ingredients. Sizzling beef mingles with aromatic herbs, creating a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) baby spinach
  • 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and diced
  • 1 pint (473 milliliters) cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Aromatics and Garnish:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled feta

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan by heating olive oil over medium-high temperature for approximately 4-5 minutes. Sauté red bell peppers and cherry tomatoes until tomatoes develop a slight blistered appearance.
  2. Introduce minced garlic and white sections of green onions to the pan. Cook briefly until garlic releases its aromatic essence, taking care to prevent browning.
  3. Incorporate spinach into the vegetable mixture, stirring until leaves collapse and become tender, approximately 2-3 minutes. Transfer vegetable medley to a separate plate.
  4. Return pan to heat and add ground beef seasoned with dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Break meat into small fragments while cooking for 6-8 minutes until thoroughly browned. Carefully drain accumulated fat.
  5. Reunite previously cooked vegetables with beef, mixing thoroughly. Fold in green sections of onions and warm the entire mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  6. Conclude by generously sprinkling crumbled feta cheese across the stir fry, ensuring even distribution. Serve immediately while ingredients remain hot and vibrant.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat the ground beef dry before cooking to ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
  • Use a high-heat tolerant olive oil or swap with avocado oil for better searing of vegetables and meat.
  • Choose lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) to reduce excess grease and keep the dish lighter.
  • Customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra kick.
  • For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for alternative protein sources.
  • Prep all ingredients beforehand to create a smooth, quick cooking process without interruptions.
  • Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can elevate the flavor profile and add brightness to the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 335
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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