Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef with the sweetness of bell peppers, the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, and the earthiness of spinach. The addition of garlic, green onions, and oregano infuses the stir fry with Mediterranean flair, while crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy finish. Best of all, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and diced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

• 8 ounces baby spinach

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)

• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean recommended)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

2. Add spinach and green onions: Stir in the baby spinach and the white parts of the green onions. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside.

3. Cook the ground beef: In the same pan, add the ground beef, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

4. Combine and serve: Return the sautéed vegetables to the pan with the beef. Add the green parts of the green onions and stir everything together until heated through. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version.

• Additional Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to introduce some heat to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry (without feta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply omit the crumbled feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.

What other greens can I use besides spinach?

Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula are excellent alternatives to spinach.

How can I add more fiber to this dish?

Serve the stir fry over brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain couscous to increase fiber content.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too mushy?

Sauté the tomatoes just until they begin to blister; avoid overcooking them to maintain their texture.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended for their flavor and texture, but canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Drain them well before adding.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Incorporate red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to add heat.

What can I serve this stir fry with?

Pair it with a side of hummus, tzatziki sauce, or a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and earthy flavors that come together in a quick and easy dish. Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with every bite!

Print

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a healthy, quick, and delicious one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with Mediterranean vegetables, savory ground beef, and fresh herbs like oregano, this stir fry offers vibrant flavors with the added bonus of a creamy feta cheese finish. It’s naturally gluten-free, customizable with your choice of greens, and ready in just 25 minutes. Make this easy Mediterranean dish for a nourishing dinner your whole family will love!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minute
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 red bell pepper, deseeded and diced

1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

8 ounces baby spinach

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)

1 pound ground beef (90% lean recommended)

½ teaspoon dried oregano

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons crumbled feta (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

• Add spinach and green onions: Stir in the baby spinach and the white parts of the green onions. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside.

• Cook the ground beef: In the same pan, add the ground beef, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

• Combine and serve: Return the sautéed vegetables to the pan with the beef. Add the green parts of the green onions and stir everything together until heated through. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving, if desired.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze (without feta) for up to 3 months.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.

• Fiber Boost: Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain couscous.