🍳 Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 or lean)
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1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 zucchini, chopped
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
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1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp ground cumin
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions:
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Brown the beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Sauté vegetables:
If the skillet is dry, add olive oil. Add onions and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and zucchini, cooking another 3 minutes. -
Add seasonings and tomatoes:
Stir in oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 3–4 minutes. -
Finish the dish:
Stir in olives and cooked ground beef. Mix to combine. Turn off heat, sprinkle feta and lemon juice on top. -
Garnish and serve:
Garnish with parsley or basil. Serve warm, optionally over rice, couscous, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps.
🧠 Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet Q&A
Q: Can I make this dish low-carb or keto?
A: Yes! It’s naturally low-carb. Just skip serving it with rice or grains and opt for cauliflower rice or eat it as is.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken will work—just add a bit more olive oil as they are leaner.
Q: What other veggies can I use?
A: Great substitutions include spinach, eggplant, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts.
Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Let it cool completely and store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Just skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Q: What pairs well with this skillet?
A: Serve it with pita, tzatziki sauce, a simple Greek salad, or on top of couscous or orzo.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
