Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Thank you so much for being here! If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed meal that’s anything but boring, this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is going to be your new weeknight favorite. It’s savory, herby, a little tangy, and comes together in just 30 minutes using simple ingredients and one pan. What’s not to love?

This recipe was born out of one of those “What’s in the fridge?” nights—and I’ve been making it on repeat ever since. It’s got lean ground beef, colorful veggies, warm spices, and that signature Mediterranean flair thanks to fresh herbs, lemon, and feta. Quick, nourishing, and SO satisfying!

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What Is Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry?

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a one-skillet dish that blends the simplicity of a stir fry with the bold, bright flavors of the Mediterranean. Ground beef is browned and seasoned with garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika, then tossed with crisp-tender vegetables, a splash of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of feta. It’s wholesome, colorful, and ridiculously easy to make.

You can serve it on its own, over rice or couscous, tucked into a pita, or even wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It’s high-protein, full of fiber, and just so, so good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder – Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
• Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flexible ingredients – Use what you have on hand.
• Family-approved – Mild enough for kids, flavorful enough for adults.
• Great for meal prep – Holds up beautifully in the fridge.
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb friendly!

What Does It Taste Like?

The flavor is vibrant and balanced. The beef is savory with warming spices like cumin and paprika, while the fresh lemon juice and herbs brighten everything up. You get a delicious contrast of tender beef, crunchy veggies, briny olives (if you’re into that), and creamy feta. It’s like a deconstructed gyro—fresh, bold, and seriously satisfying.

Benefits of Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

• High in protein – Ground beef provides long-lasting energy.
• Loaded with veggies – Add color and nutrients to your plate.
• Customizable for any diet – Paleo, gluten-free, low-carb approved.
• Meal prep superstar – Keeps well and reheats like a dream.
• Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and everyday produce.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed dish:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced (optional)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ins

I promised you versatile, and here’s where you can get creative:

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, lamb, or chicken
• Use spinach or kale instead of zucchini
• Add chickpeas or white beans for extra fiber
• Top with tzatziki or a dollop of hummus
• Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or pita
• Use goat cheese or omit cheese for dairy-free

How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the garlic, red onion, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Toss in the Veggies

Add the zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the veggies are crisp-tender. Add cherry tomatoes and olives (if using) and cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Freshness

Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine. Remove from heat and sprinkle with feta and chopped herbs.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot on its own or with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread.

What to Serve With Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

This dish is amazing on its own, but here are some tasty serving ideas:

• Pita bread or naan to scoop up every bite
• Fluffy couscous or quinoa
• Simple cucumber yogurt salad
• Greek-style roasted potatoes
• Fresh greens with lemon vinaigrette
• Hummus and warm flatbread

Tips for Success

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease
• Cut veggies evenly so they cook consistently
• Don’t overcook the tomatoes – they should be just blistered, not mushy
• Fresh herbs make a difference – don’t skip the parsley or mint
• Double the recipe – it makes great leftovers!

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, especially if you serve it with cauliflower rice or leafy greens instead of grains.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and makes a delicious lunch or dinner for busy days.

What other veggies can I use?

Broccoli, mushrooms, eggplant, or even canned artichoke hearts work great here.

Why You’ll Love Making This on Repeat

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is everything a weeknight meal should be: fast, flavorful, and flexible. It’s a total flavor bomb—warm, herbaceous, slightly tangy, and ultra-satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to adapt to whatever’s in your fridge or pantry. Whether you’re eating clean, cooking for a family, or just trying to make healthy meals that actually taste good, this one checks every box.

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