This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish! With lean ground beef, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love.
You can whip this up in just one pan—no fuss and a big win for busy weeknights! I always serve it with rice or pita for a filling meal. You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for this dish, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Vegetables: The bell peppers and zucchini bring great color and crunch. Feel free to switch them with any seasonal veggies, like spinach or eggplant. You can also use frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes if you’re short on fresh veggies!
Spices: Cumin and oregano are key for that Mediterranean flavor. If you don’t have these, taco seasoning works well in a pinch! The cinnamon adds warmth, but it’s totally optional, so use it if you’re curious.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or cilantro can make a nice swap.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds zing. If you don’t have a lemon, a splash of vinegar (like red wine or balsamic) can give a nice tang too!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef right is super important for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Break up the beef with a spatula while cooking, so it browns evenly.
- Let it cook without stirring for a couple of minutes initially to get that nice brown color.
- Make sure it’s cooked all the way through and no longer pink to ensure food safety.
Using these tips will give you great-tasting beef that adds richness to your stir fry!
Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and fast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let it warm up so we can sauté the veggies properly.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This creates a tasty base for your stir fry!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it cooks quickly!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet next. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook it until it’s well-browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
5. Add Spices:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the cumin, oregano, paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Mix well so the meat is evenly coated in the spices. This step adds all that delicious Mediterranean flavor!
6. Toss in the Veggies:
Now it’s time for the colorful veggies! Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still a bit crisp. They should be vibrant and packed with flavor!
7. Finish with Lemon and Parsley:
Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over your stir fry. This adds a wonderful brightness. Stir in the chopped parsley, giving everything a good mix.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean stir fry hot! You can top it with crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy it on warm pita bread or over rice for a complete meal. Bon appétit!
This stir fry is not only easy but also fresh, vibrant, and packed with amazing Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes a great lean substitute for beef in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but keep an eye on it as poultry can cook slightly faster.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach, eggplant, or even frozen mixed veggies. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they stay tender yet crisp!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tempeh, lentils, or a mix of chickpeas and vegetables. You can also use plant-based ground meat for similar texture and flavor.
