This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal packed with flavors. With juicy ground beef, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger!
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I love serving it with rice or warm pita—who can resist that combo? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken also works well in this recipe, providing a similar texture and flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrients. If fresh is not available, you can use frozen spinach; just ensure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the stir fry.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness really brightens the dish. If you don’t have them, regular tomatoes cut into chunks or even sun-dried tomatoes can bring out similar flavors.
Feta Cheese: I love the tanginess of feta. If you’re not a fan, try using goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella for a milder taste. Dairy-free cheese alternatives are good substitutes too!
Spices: Dried oregano and paprika are fantastic for Mediterranean flavor. If you want a different twist, try Italian seasoning or add a pinch of crushed red pepper for some heat!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Without It Becoming Tough?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky, especially if you’re aiming for tender meat. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start your skillet on medium heat; don’t rush it! This helps render the fat and moisture from the beef.
- Break up the meat gently with a spatula. Let it brown without constant stirring to build that lovely texture.
- Drain excess fat if it looks too greasy. Keeping a little fat adds flavor while making sure it’s not overly oily.
- Season the meat after it’s browned. This way, the spices cling better!
Following these tips helps maintain a juicy and flavorful ground beef for your stir fry! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook it until browned and fully cooked, which will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, drain it off to keep your stir fry lean.
3. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
4. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper becomes tender and the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
5. Fold in the Spinach:
Finally, fold in the chopped spinach and continue to cook for just 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and bright green. This adds a lovely freshness to your stir fry.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry hot, garnished with sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially if you choose a leaner meat. Always ensure it’s cooked to the appropriate temperature!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! You can substitute fresh spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to moisten it if needed. This dish is perfect for meal prep!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables you love. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli would work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times to ensure everything is tender and delicious!
