Name: Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir‑Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp beef or vegetable broth (optional); 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this stir-fry brings together bright, fresh vegetables and seasoned beef in one pan. It’s fast, healthy, and deeply satisfying. The feta and herbs on top give it that classic Mediterranean finish, and I can serve it however I like—over rice, tucked in pita, or just by itself.

ingredients

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

1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1 tablespoon extra‑virgin olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons low‑sodium beef or vegetable broth (optional, for saucier texture)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until it turns translucent.

Next, I stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

I add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. I let it brown and cook through, which takes about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, I drain it off.

Then I add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini. I cook them for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften.

I toss in the cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. I stir everything to combine.

I mix in the tomato paste and, if I want a saucier texture, I add the broth. I let it cook for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Once everything is well combined and fragrant, I take it off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta and chopped parsley or basil over the top.

I serve it warm, usually over rice or tucked into warm pita.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: approximately 380 kcal per serving

Variations

Sometimes I swap the beef for ground turkey or lamb depending on what I have. I also love stirring in chopped spinach or kale for added greens. For a dairy-free version, I skip the feta and use olives for extra briny flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave or sauté in a skillet until hot. If I’m serving with rice or pita, I warm those separately to keep everything fresh.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I often use ground turkey as a lighter option, and it still tastes great with the same seasonings.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

I like using mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant depending on what I have. It’s a flexible dish.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I prep it in advance and portion into containers with rice or pita for grab-and-go meals.

How do I make it spicier?

I increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce at the end.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. I swap the beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and it still works beautifully.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir‑Fry is one of my favorite quick dinners—it’s colorful, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect when I want something hearty but still fresh, and the best part is I can make it in just one pan.