This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal that blends savory beef with colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions. Toss in some herbs, and you’ve got a winner!
I love how this dish comes together in just a few minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something yummy without all the fuss. Plus, it makes a great filling for wraps!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for this recipe, which keeps it juicy without being too greasy. If you want a healthier option, try ground turkey or even ground lamb for a richer flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition! You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard if you have those on hand. Just remember to chop them more finely since they can be tougher.
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers are sweet and tasty, but feel free to use yellow or orange ones instead. You can also use green bell peppers if you prefer a sharper taste.
Feta Cheese: For a different flavor, you could substitute feta with goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella. However, feta’s tanginess really lifts this dish!
Oregano and Cumin: Dried oregano adds a Mediterranean touch, while cumin brings warmth. If you want a different flavor profile, Italian seasoning or taco seasoning could be great substitutes.
How Do You Ensure the Best Flavor in Your Stir Fry?
Getting great flavor in your stir fry is about layering ingredients and cooking them correctly. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic – this builds a flavorful base. Here are some tips:
- Cook the onion until translucent before adding the beef. This enhances the sweetness and overall taste.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if needed. Too much fat can make your stir fry greasy.
- Add the peppers and tomatoes next, and let them cook until they soften and burst with flavor.
- Finally, stir in the spinach just until it wilts. Overcooking it can make it limp and less vibrant.
These steps will help balance flavors and create a delicious, colorful dish! Remember to taste as you go to adjust the seasoning as needed.
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry will take about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or frying pan, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create a lovely base for your dish!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula or spoon to break it apart. Cook it until it’s browned and no pink remains, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep your stir fry healthier.
3. Add the Veggies and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Cook this mix for another 3-5 minutes. You want the bell pepper to become tender and the cherry tomatoes to start blistering a bit for extra flavor.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Now, toss in the chopped spinach and mix everything together. Keep stirring until the spinach is wilted down, which should just take about 2-3 minutes. Season your stir fry with salt and pepper to taste, bringing all those flavors together.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once everything is nicely cooked, take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. It’s time to serve your Mediterranean ground beef stir fry hot! Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey and chicken are great lean alternatives to ground beef. Just note that the cooking time may vary slightly, and be sure to ensure they are cooked thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Feel free to get creative with the veggies! Zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant would work beautifully in this dish. Just chop them into similar sizes as the bell pepper and tomatoes, and add them in step 3, allowing for adequate cooking time.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ahead of time! Simply cook the dish as directed, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
