Name: Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean); 1 red onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small zucchini or 1 cup diced eggplant; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of ½ lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional toppings: crumbled feta, chopped fresh parsley, kalamata olives, red pepper flakes

Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is a fast, flavorful dish loaded with lean protein, fresh veggies, and bold, herby seasoning. It’s one of those go-to meals I whip up when I want something healthy and satisfying that comes together in a single skillet. Served on its own, over rice, or wrapped in pita, this dish is versatile and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both quick and customizable. The combination of ground beef, garlic, onion, and warm spices like cumin and oregano gives it that signature Mediterranean flavor, and the colorful veggies make it feel fresh and wholesome. It’s great for meal prep, family dinners, or an easy lunch that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (lean or extra lean)
Red onion (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Bell pepper (any color, sliced)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Zucchini or eggplant (diced)
Fresh spinach or kale
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Salt and black pepper
Optional: crumbled feta, fresh parsley, olives, red pepper flakes

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
I add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, and season it with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Once the beef is browned, I stir in the bell peppers and zucchini (or eggplant) and cook until tender.
I toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them soften slightly.
I add the spinach and stir just until wilted.
I finish it off with a squeeze of lemon juice and optional crumbled feta and chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or lamb.
Chickpeas or lentils are great plant-based additions for more texture and protein.
Adding kalamata olives and artichoke hearts gives it even more Mediterranean flair.
I’ve served it over couscous, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps for different styles.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. It’s great for meal prep and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.

FAQs

Can I make this dish low-carb?

Yes! I often serve it on its own or in lettuce cups to keep it low in carbs. It’s also delicious over cauliflower rice.

Is it spicy?

Not unless I add red pepper flakes or a bit of harissa. I usually keep it mild, then spice it up for myself at the end.

Can I use frozen veggies?

Absolutely. I’ve used frozen spinach and bell peppers when fresh wasn’t available—just cook off any excess moisture.

What’s the best way to serve this?

I love it over rice or couscous, wrapped in warm pita, or just with a side of hummus and a cucumber salad.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, it doubles easily and makes fantastic leftovers. I just use a larger skillet or cook in two batches so the veggies don’t steam.

Conclusion

Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is the perfect weeknight dish—fast, flavorful, and full of fresh ingredients. It’s hearty without being heavy and flexible enough to make it exactly how I like. Whether I’m scooping it into a pita, piling it over rice, or eating it straight from the pan, this dish always hits the spot.