This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty dish that mixes juicy ground beef with colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s packed with flavor from spices like oregano and garlic!
Cooking this dish is a breeze, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. I love serving it with rice or pita. Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the dish. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard. Just adjust cooking time as they may take a bit longer to wilt.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring a sweet burst to the stir fry. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces work too. Just be aware that they may not be as sweet.
Feta Cheese: This adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan of feta, try crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different taste.
Spices: Oregano and paprika are key for flavor. You can substitute with Italian seasoning for a different twist, but I love the depth paprika brings.
How Do I Get the Ground Beef Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef to perfection is key for a tasty dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a medium heat to avoid burning the garlic when you sauté it.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
- Look for it to turn a nice brown color and no longer have any pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it before adding other ingredients. It keeps the dish lighter!
Getting this right sets a solid base for the rest of your stir fry!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon while it cooks. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, you can drain it off.
3. Add the Red Bell Pepper:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook this for about 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper becomes a bit tender. This adds both color and flavor!
4. Incorporate the Spinach and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes and the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will allow the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften, making a lovely mix of flavors.
5. Season Your Stir Fry:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Finish with Feta and Green Onions:
Remove the skillet from heat. Top the warm stir fry with crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions. This adds a delicious touch and makes it look pretty!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry warm, either on its own, with pita bread, or over rice if you like. Enjoy your delightful Mediterranean meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives to ground beef. Just keep in mind that these meats can be leaner, so you may want to add a touch more olive oil to prevent the stir fry from drying out.
Can I Substitute Fresh Spinach with Other Greens?
Yes, you can use other leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, or arugula. Just make sure to chop them roughly and adjust the cooking time a bit, as some greens may take slightly longer to wilt or soften.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might add a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep it moist.
What Other Toppings Can I Use Besides Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, try using crumbled goat cheese, shredded mozzarella, or even avocado slices for a creamier texture. Just sprinkle the topping on right before serving for the best flavor!
