This tasty Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is packed with flavors and colors! It mixes savory beef with fresh veggies, garlic, and delicious spices.
The best part? It comes together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights! I love serving it with warm pita bread; it makes every bite even better. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and fat. For a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may need extra seasoning to enhance flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is ideal for this dish, as it wilts nicely and has a mild flavor. If you don’t have spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard instead. Just chop them into smaller pieces to help them cook down well.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If they’re not available, you can use regular diced tomatoes, but try to drain some juice to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, tangy bite. If you’re not a fan of feta, consider using goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative. Both offer a different flavor but still work well in this dish.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Onions and Garlic Without Burning Them?
Sautéing onions and garlic is crucial for building flavor, but it’s easy to burn them. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a medium heat – too high will scorch the garlic and onions.
- Use enough oil. The olive oil should coat the skillet evenly; if it starts to smoke, turn the heat down.
- Add onions first, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they’re translucent. This gives them a head start before adding garlic.
- Add garlic after the onions are softened and cook for just 30 seconds – it cooks quickly!
Keeping an eye on the color and adjusting the heat promptly will help you avoid burnt bits and enhance the dish’s flavor!
Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Mediterranean stir fry takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This is where the magic begins!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. It will smell amazing!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take around 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat, don’t forget to drain it.
4. Add the Vegetables and Spices:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional 3-4 minutes until the veggies become nice and soft.
5. Stir in the Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it in and cook until it’s wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’re almost done!
6. Add the Feta:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. This will give it a wonderful creamy texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your stir fry hot and garnish it with sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook them until they’re no longer pink, following the same instructions for browning the meat. You might want to add a bit more seasoning as these meats can have a milder flavor than beef.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli work beautifully in this stir fry. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetables you choose. Add heartier veggies earlier and more delicate ones like spinach towards the end to prevent overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet on low heat until warmed through. If the stir fry seems a bit dry when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to moisten it up.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook the stir fry as directed and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for about 3 days. Just reheat before serving. This dish also makes for a great meal prep option!
