This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, colorful veggies, and warm spices. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
I love how easy this dish comes together, making it perfect for busy nights. Just chop, stir, and serve it over rice or in a pita for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for a juicy stir fry, but if you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 ground beef will work too. Ground turkey is a great low-fat substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option!
Fresh Baby Spinach: Spinach wilts beautifully, but if you don’t have it, kale or Swiss chard can serve as good alternatives. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer since they’re tougher than spinach!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness to the dish. If they’re out of season, you could use diced canned tomatoes, but drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet red bell peppers add color and crunch. You can swap with yellow or orange peppers for similar sweetness. They’re equally delicious!
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even ricotta cheese can be great alternatives to sprinkle on top.
How Do You Sauté Garlic and Onions Without Burning Them?
Cooking garlic and onions is crucial as they form the flavor base for your stir fry. Start with a medium heat to prevent burning. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet until shimmering, then add chopped red onion.
- Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir often to prevent it from burning.
If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. This way, you can get that lovely sweetness without any bitter taste from burnt garlic!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes to prepare and enjoy. It’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped red onion and minced garlic. Cook them together until the onion becomes translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This will give your stir fry a wonderful aroma!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it out to keep your dish lighter.
3. Add the Veggies and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you want some heat). Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Cook everything together for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softening but still slightly crisp. This will give you a beautiful mix of colors!
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Now, add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir it in and keep cooking until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will not only add nutrients but also a lovely green color to your stir fry.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the spinach is wilted and everything is well mixed, take the skillet off the heat. Serve your Mediterranean Stir Fry hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese and sliced green onions for a fresh and vibrant finish. Enjoy this hearty dish!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly; be sure to cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Spinach?
If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet, as frozen spinach can release a lot of water.
How Do I Store Leftover Stir Fry?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the stir fry seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. Just chop them up into even-sized pieces, and adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding them to the skillet at the appropriate stage so everything cooks evenly.
