Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

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This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a one-pan wonder that brings together rich, savory ground beef, vibrant zucchini and red bell peppers, briny olives, and crumbled feta cheese. It’s packed with color, texture, and bold flavor, making it a go-to weeknight dinner that tastes anything but basic. With aromatic herbs and a tangy twist from the feta, each bite delivers comfort and freshness all in one.

What makes this stir-fry truly irresistible is its simplicity. There’s no long simmering or complicated prep here—just wholesome ingredients quickly cooked for a fast, nourishing meal. Whether you’re watching carbs, looking for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, or want a creative spin on ground beef, this skillet dish has your name on it.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Lean ground beef (around 85-90% lean) is a great choice for this stir-fry. It provides enough fat to enhance flavor without making the dish greasy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you’re after something lighter.

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Ingredients for the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

Ground Beef – The base of the dish, adding richness and savory depth.

Zucchini – Sliced and sautéed until just tender, it brings a delicate sweetness and bulk to the stir-fry.

Red Bell Pepper – Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a bright pop of color.

Red Onion – For a mild sharpness that mellows as it cooks.

Garlic – Essential for Mediterranean flavor, garlic enhances the overall depth of the dish.

Kalamata Olives – Bring a briny, salty contrast that ties the dish together.

Feta Cheese – Crumbled over the top for a creamy, tangy finish.

Fresh Parsley – Sprinkled at the end for a herbaceous note and a fresh burst of green.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and beef, and keep the Mediterranean flavors authentic.

Salt, Pepper, and Dried Oregano – Basic seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors in the skillet.

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How To Make the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Slice the zucchini and red bell pepper, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the parsley. Keep the feta and olives set aside for finishing touches.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and crumbled. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and oregano. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the red onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the sliced zucchini and red bell pepper. Sauté until the veggies are tender-crisp, around 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the kalamata olives and gently stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the stir-fry. Garnish with fresh parsley and give it a final drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb. You can also scoop it into pita bread or over a bed of fresh greens for a deconstructed Mediterranean bowl.

To store leftovers, let the stir-fry cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. If freezing, skip the feta topping until serving for best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or stir in a spoonful of harissa for a smoky heat.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! This recipe is versatile. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant based on what you have.

What kind of olives work best?

Kalamata olives are the go-to for that classic Mediterranean briny flavor, but green or Castelvetrano olives can be used for a milder taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the stir-fry itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve it with—avoid wheat-based couscous or pita.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Just omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I bulk it up for meal prep?

Add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and fiber. It stretches the dish and keeps you full longer.

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Want More Stir-Fry Ideas?

If this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry hit the spot, check out these other savory, skillet-style dishes you’ll love:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for rich comfort in one skillet.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a zesty, high-protein plate.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta when you’re craving pasta with bold Mediterranean flair.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a veggie-packed, cheesy classic.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites when you want nostalgia with a homemade twist.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away next time you need a fast Mediterranean meal.

And when you make it, let me know how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the feta? Swap in turkey instead of beef? Drop a comment and share your own twist.

Looking for even more recipes like this? Head over to my Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes where I post quick dinners and colorful meal ideas daily.

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