Mediterranean ground beef stir has become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels both healthy and incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was skeptical if ground beef could really capture those vibrant Mediterranean flavors, but wow, was I wrong! The aroma of garlic and oregano filling my kitchen as the colorful peppers and onions sautéed was just heavenly. This quick Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is packed with fresh vegetables and a delightful blend of spices that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

You’ll absolutely adore this Mediterranean ground beef stir for so many reasons. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

• Incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with healthy, fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal.
• The Mediterranean spices create a wonderfully aromatic and savory profile.
• This quick Mediterranean ground beef stir comes together in under 35 minutes from start to finish.
• It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies.
• A truly satisfying and flavorful way to enjoy ground beef.
• This quick Mediterranean ground beef stir is also a fantastic option for meal prep.
• It offers a delicious and healthy alternative to typical stir-fries.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this amazing dish. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful ground beef stir fry with olives and feta:

• 1 pound ground beef – I prefer 85/15 for a good balance of flavor and leanness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely fruity note.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – About 1 cup, this forms the aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that pungent kick.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – For more sweetness and a contrasting hue.
• 1 cup broccoli florets – These provide a nice crunch and earthy flavor.
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved – Their briny, salty taste is essential for that Mediterranean flair.
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – This creamy, tangy cheese melts slightly and adds a wonderful finish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Mediterranean herb that’s wonderfully fragrant.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the oregano beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat if you like it spicy.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – To enhance all the other flavors.
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving – The perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices.

How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

1. Step 1: Get your kitchen ready by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, I like to get all my veggies chopped and ready to go. This prep work makes the actual cooking so much smoother.
2. Step 2: Grab a large skillet or a wok and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your 1 pound of ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned.
3. Step 3: Now, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step is crucial to avoid a greasy stir fry. Add the 1 medium chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it starts to soften and turn translucent, usually about 3-4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Toss in the 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for just about 1 minute more. You want to cook the garlic until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn, as that can make it bitter.
5. Step 5: Add the colorful 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced, and 1 cup of broccoli florets to the skillet. These Mediterranean ground beef stir fry cooking instructions really bring the dish to life with vibrant colors and textures.
6. Step 6: Stir fry everything together for about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for the vegetables to become tender-crisp – still a little bite to them, not mushy.
7. Step 7: Now for the Mediterranean magic! Stir in the 1/2 cup of Kalamata olives, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, and the 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste, making sure all those yummy flavors meld together.
8. Step 8: Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing all those wonderful Mediterranean spices to really bloom and coat the beef and veggies.
9. Step 9: Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently stir in the 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese. It will slightly soften and create a creamy, tangy finish that just makes this dish sing.
10. Step 10: Serve your delicious Mediterranean ground beef stir immediately over cooked rice or quinoa. These Mediterranean ground beef stir fry cooking instructions result in a truly fantastic meal perfect for any night of the week.

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish. Follow these tips for a truly fantastic Mediterranean ground beef stir:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef. Cook it in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a nice sear instead of steaming.
• Chop your vegetables into roughly uniform sizes. This ensures they all cook evenly, preventing some from being mushy while others are still too firm.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The saltiness of the olives and feta can vary, so a final check for salt and pepper is always a good idea.
• For an extra layer of flavor, toast your dried herbs slightly in the pan with the garlic before adding the vegetables.

What’s the secret to perfect Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir?

The secret lies in the balance of fresh ingredients and aromatic Mediterranean spices ground beef stir. Properly browning the beef and not overcooking the vegetables are key for great texture. For more on the benefits of fresh ingredients, check out tips for a successful harvest.

Can I make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prep the ingredients ahead of time! Chop all your veggies and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can even brown the beef and store it separately. This makes assembly a breeze for a quick weeknight meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir?

A common mistake is overcooking the vegetables, making them mushy. Another is overcrowding the pan, which prevents proper browning of the beef. Lastly, don’t forget to drain the excess grease from the beef before adding the aromatics.

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

This versatile Mediterranean ground beef stir is fantastic served in a few different ways, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. My absolute favorite is spooning it over fluffy cooked rice or quinoa. The grains are the perfect vehicle to soak up all those delicious Mediterranean juices and savory flavors. For a lighter option, you could serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon-herb vinaigrette. If you’re looking for a complete and hearty Mediterranean ground beef stir fry for dinner, consider pairing it with some warm pita bread for dipping, or even a side of roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.

Nutrition Facts for Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving of this delightful Mediterranean ground beef stir. It’s a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

This flavorful Mediterranean ground beef and veggie stir is fantastic for meal prep, and thankfully, it stores and reheats beautifully. Once it’s cooled completely, transfer the stir fry into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, I usually pop a portion in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir

What makes this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir so easy?

The ease of this easy Mediterranean beef stir fry comes from using simple ingredients that cook quickly. Browning the ground beef and then stir-frying the vegetables takes minimal effort, and you can even prep the veggies ahead of time to make weeknight cooking even faster. It’s designed for busy cooks!

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully and offer a slightly lighter flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, crumbled firm tofu or even cooked lentils can be used, though you might adjust the spices slightly to complement their flavors. For a similar vegetarian option, try our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.

What other vegetables work well in this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir?

This dish is incredibly forgiving! Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or green beans. Just ensure you cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. The goal is tender-crisp vegetables that complement the savory beef and briny olives. For more on vegetables, see the many benefits of onions.

How do I make this a spicier Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir?

To add more heat, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a finely minced jalapeño along with the garlic for an extra kick. Adjust the heat to your personal preference!

Variations of Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir You Can Try

This versatile dish is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few ways to switch up your Mediterranean ground beef stir game:

• Spicy Mediterranean Twist: For those who love a kick, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or even some chopped fresh jalapeño with the garlic. A swirl of sriracha at the end also works wonders!
• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground beef for crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils. This makes for a hearty vegetarian meal, and you might want to slightly adjust the spices to complement the plant-based protein. This is a great way to adapt the ground beef Mediterranean stir fry recipe for a meat-free diet.
• Sheet Pan Simplicity: Instead of stir-frying, toss all your ingredients (except the feta and olives) onto a sheet pan with a bit more olive oil and your spices. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through. Stir in the feta and olives after baking.
• Lemon-Herb Infusion: Brighten up the flavors by adding the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking, along with a handful of fresh chopped parsley or mint. This adds a wonderful freshness to the dish.

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