This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is packed with flavor, featuring juicy ground beef and colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s quick to make and super tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef for this dish, as it reduces excess grease while still giving great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Zucchini: Zucchini adds freshness and a nice crunch. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a great substitute. You can even use broccoli florets for a different texture.
Bell Peppers: I chose red and yellow bell peppers for their sweetness and vibrant color. Feel free to use green peppers or even switch to another vegetable like carrots if that’s what you have on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add juiciness and sweetness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes are fine, but reduce the cooking time to avoid excess mush.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor. If you’re looking for a neutral taste, avocado oil or vegetable oil works well too.
How Do I Cook the Beef Perfectly Without Overcooking?
To achieve perfectly cooked ground beef, aim for a medium-high heat so it browns nicely. Here are a few tips for cooking it just right:
- Break the beef into small pieces with your spoon as it cooks. This ensures even browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to maintain heat and get a good sear.
- Remove it from the pan once it’s no longer pink. Overcooking will make it tough, so keep an eye on it!
These simple tips will help you achieve tender and flavorful beef in your stir-fry.
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup bulgur wheat or couscous, cooked (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, making sure it browns evenly. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. After it’s fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the sliced red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but still look vibrant and colorful.
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook them for another 2-3 minutes until they soften and maybe even start to blister a little. This brings out their natural sweetness!
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked ground beef to the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through—about 2-3 minutes. If it seems a bit dry, feel free to add a splash more olive oil.
5. Finish and Serve:
Season the stir-fry with more salt and pepper to taste. When it’s all well mixed, remove it from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. If you like, add some cooked bulgur wheat or couscous on top for extra texture.
Serve this warm on its own, over a bed of rice, or wrapped in a warm pita bread for an enjoyable Mediterranean meal. Dive in and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be aware that it may require a little less cooking time and may be a bit drier, so consider adding a splash of broth or a bit more olive oil for moisture.
How Do I Make This Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and replacing it with a mix of your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein, such as tempeh or tofu. Just sauté the veggies longer to ensure they are tender, and adjust seasonings as needed!
What Should I Serve With This Stir-Fry?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa for a filling meal. You can also serve it wrapped in pita bread or alongside a simple salad for a lighter option.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to help steam the veggies back to life.