This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is quick and tasty! Packed with fresh veggies and spices, it’s a colorful dish that delights the taste buds.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy! I love throwing in some feta cheese at the end for a creamy twist. Who doesn’t love a little cheese, right? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this dish since it keeps it lighter. If you’re looking to cut calories, try using ground turkey or chicken instead. Both options still deliver good flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor. If you’re out, vegetable oil or avocado oil can work too, but they might not add the same depth.
Onion: Chopped onion is key for a flavor base. Yellow or sweet onions are best, but red onions will also give a slight sweetness. Just avoid green onions here.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely tang. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even ricotta can be nice alternatives, but they will change the flavor profile.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for wilting, but if you can only find frozen, just make sure you defrost and drain it well before adding.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking beef evenly is important for texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by heating your skillet to medium-high; this helps brown the beef nicely.
- Once you add the ground beef, use a spatula to break it apart quickly. This ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t clump.
- Cook until browned all over, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes; make sure it’s no longer pink in the middle.
- Always check for doneness; ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything until it’s deliciously ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. It’s the perfect time to get that wonderful aroma going!
2. Cook the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the hot skillet. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. This will add a nice sweetness to your stir fry.
3. Add the Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when that lovely garlic smell fills your kitchen!
4. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir it often so it cooks evenly!
5. Season the Beef:
Time to season! Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Stir everything together so the spices get nicely mixed in with the beef.
6. Add the Veggies:
Now, toss in the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. It’ll start looking colorful!
7. Finish with Spinach:
Fold the fresh spinach into the skillet and cook it for about 2 minutes, or until it wilts down nicely. This adds a lovely green touch and boosts the nutrients in your dish.
8. Add Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. It adds a delicious creamy texture!
9. Garnish with Green Onions:
Finish it off by garnishing with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. They’ll make your stir fry look even more appetizing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry warm, either on its own or over a bed of rice or quinoa if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as you go!
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or crumbled queso fresco for a similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems dry after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to moisten it!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly, adding firmer vegetables like carrots earlier in the process.
