Every family has that one recipe they return to again and again—a meal that’s fast, comforting, and filled with stories. For me, it’s Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something memorable. One skillet, a few pantry spices, fresh vegetables, and ground beef—that’s all it takes. Yet somehow, the result feels like a dish you might find at a seaside café tucked away on a Greek island or in the narrow streets of a Turkish village.
This dish has roots in my childhood, where the kitchen was always the warmest room in the house. My grandmother, who emigrated from the eastern Mediterranean, would often cook meals like this—simple, hearty, and rich in the flavors of her homeland. I remember the hiss of garlic hitting the pan, the jewel-toned bell peppers tossed in with a practiced flick of the wrist, and the earthy aroma of oregano filling the air. Meals like these weren’t just dinner; they were a legacy.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry captures the essence of that tradition while making it completely accessible to modern cooks. Whether you’re rushing in from work, cooking for picky eaters, or trying to eat healthier, this dish has your back. It’s as much about convenience as it is about culture.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
- Easy and quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep.
- Wholesome and satisfying: A balanced mix of protein, veggies, and healthy fats.
- Deep Mediterranean flavor: Oregano, garlic, paprika, and olive oil bring every bite to life.
- Crowd-pleaser: Adults love the flavor, and kids enjoy the familiar textures.
- Versatile: Serve it over grains, in wraps, or enjoy it on its own as a low-carb option.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, diced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 packed cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
A Skillet Journey to the Mediterranean
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. My grandmother always said that olive oil was the soul of Mediterranean cooking—it brings all the ingredients together and carries the flavor of the spices. Once hot, add the onions and sauté for about 3 minutes, until soft and slightly golden.
Next comes the garlic. As it sizzles, the scent becomes irresistible. Add the ground beef, and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Let it brown fully, about 7–10 minutes, and drain excess fat if needed.
Now stir in the spices—oregano, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic starts. The paprika adds a subtle sweetness and warmth, the oregano a touch of earthiness. Stir well so the meat is coated in flavor.
Toss in the diced bell peppers and halved tomatoes. Let them cook with the beef for about 5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, creating a natural sauce. Stir occasionally, but let them sit long enough to caramelize slightly.
Add in the spinach last—it wilts quickly and doesn’t need much cooking. Stir until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Turn off the heat and top with crumbled feta cheese. Let it melt slightly into the dish. A handful of fresh parsley or basil brings everything together.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Choose lean ground beef (85–90%) for less grease and a lighter finish.
- Let the beef sear undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring—it builds flavor.
- Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth and a salty kick.
- Turn it into a bowl with couscous, farro, or roasted potatoes underneath.
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: One-Pan Meal
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb Friendly
Notes
This is a foundational dish you can make again and again with slight twists each time. Replace the beef with lamb for a richer flavor or keep it vegetarian with lentils or chopped mushrooms. You can even turn this into a filling for Mediterranean tacos or wraps.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, either will work beautifully. Just be sure to season well, since these meats are milder.
Is this keto-friendly?
It can be. Just ensure the tomatoes and peppers fit your macro goals and skip any grains when serving.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Definitely. Make the full dish up to 4 days ahead. Reheat gently and add fresh herbs or feta when serving.
What else can I serve this with?
Try it over a bed of couscous, inside pita bread, on top of mashed potatoes, or rolled into flatbread wraps.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy and veggie-rich Mediterranean-inspired dishes:
- Spicy Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)
- Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- Southwestern Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet – One-Pan Comfort Food at Its Best
- Stuffed Potato Cakes with Meat and Mushrooms
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is more than just a recipe. It’s a tribute to generations of cooks who knew how to make magic from humble ingredients. It’s weeknight-friendly but still carries the heart and soul of a traditional Mediterranean meal. The next time you need a cozy skillet dinner that brings bold flavor, color, and nourishment, this dish is your go-to.
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Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Description
Every family has that one recipe they return to again and again—a meal that’s fast, comforting, and filled with stories. For me, it’s Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something memorable. One skillet, a few pantry spices, fresh vegetables, and ground beef—that’s all it takes. Yet somehow, the result feels like a dish you might find at a seaside café tucked away on a Greek island or in the narrow streets of a Turkish village.
This dish has roots in my childhood, where the kitchen was always the warmest room in the house. My grandmother, who emigrated from the eastern Mediterranean, would often cook meals like this—simple, hearty, and rich in the flavors of her homeland. I remember the hiss of garlic hitting the pan, the jewel-toned bell peppers tossed in with a practiced flick of the wrist, and the earthy aroma of oregano filling the air. Meals like these weren’t just dinner; they were a legacy.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry captures the essence of that tradition while making it completely accessible to modern cooks. Whether you’re rushing in from work, cooking for picky eaters, or trying to eat healthier, this dish has your back. It’s as much about convenience as it is about culture.
Ingredients
-
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 medium yellow onion, diced
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 red bell pepper, diced
-
1 yellow or orange bell pepper, diced
-
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 tsp sweet paprika
-
½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
2 packed cups fresh baby spinach
-
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
-
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. My grandmother always said that olive oil was the soul of Mediterranean cooking—it brings all the ingredients together and carries the flavor of the spices. Once hot, add the onions and sauté for about 3 minutes, until soft and slightly golden.
Next comes the garlic. As it sizzles, the scent becomes irresistible. Add the ground beef, and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Let it brown fully, about 7–10 minutes, and drain excess fat if needed.
Now stir in the spices—oregano, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic starts. The paprika adds a subtle sweetness and warmth, the oregano a touch of earthiness. Stir well so the meat is coated in flavor.
Toss in the diced bell peppers and halved tomatoes. Let them cook with the beef for about 5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, creating a natural sauce. Stir occasionally, but let them sit long enough to caramelize slightly.
Add in the spinach last—it wilts quickly and doesn’t need much cooking. Stir until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Turn off the heat and top with crumbled feta cheese. Let it melt slightly into the dish. A handful of fresh parsley or basil brings everything together.
Notes
This is a foundational dish you can make again and again with slight twists each time. Replace the beef with lamb for a richer flavor or keep it vegetarian with lentils or chopped mushrooms. You can even turn this into a filling for Mediterranean tacos or wraps.
