Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
A Healthy, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dinner for Busy Weeknights
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a vibrant, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of the Mediterranean diet with the convenience of a quick stir-fry. Loaded with lean ground beef, colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, and savory spices, this meal is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy dinner recipe, a high-protein meal, or a low-carb Mediterranean dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Unlike traditional stir-fries that rely heavily on soy sauce or sugar-laden sauces, this Mediterranean-inspired version uses olive oil, garlic, herbs, and fresh vegetables to create a naturally rich and aromatic dish. The result is a meal that feels indulgent while still aligning with popular dietary lifestyles such as clean eating, keto-friendly dinners, gluten-free recipes, and Mediterranean diet meal plans.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a quick skillet dinner after work, this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry
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One-pan recipe – minimal cleanup
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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High-protein, low-carb, and nutrient-dense
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Perfect for meal prep, weight loss, and healthy lifestyles
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Made with simple, affordable ingredients
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Naturally gluten-free and customizable
This dish is especially appealing for readers searching for healthy ground beef recipes, quick dinner ideas, or Mediterranean diet recipes for beginners.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Protein
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1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (85–90% lean)
Vegetables
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1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
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1 small red onion, diced
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Mediterranean Flavor Base
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¾ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh Herbs & Finishing Touches
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional: crumbled feta cheese, olives, or a squeeze of lemon juice
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm until shimmering. Using olive oil is essential for authentic Mediterranean flavor and heart-healthy fats.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary, but leave a small amount for flavor.
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and oregano while it cooks. This allows the spices to bloom in the heat and deeply flavor the meat.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and diced red onion. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. This step builds the aromatic base of the dish.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add the zucchini and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to preserve color, texture, and nutrients.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is incredibly versatile. Serve it:
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Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb or keto dinner
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With quinoa or brown rice for a balanced Mediterranean meal
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Inside lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing option
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With warm pita bread or flatbread
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Topped with feta cheese or Greek yogurt sauce
These options make it appealing to readers searching for low-carb dinners, healthy family meals, or Mediterranean meal prep ideas.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (best without fresh herbs added)
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out
This makes it ideal for weekly meal prep, high-protein lunches, and budget-friendly healthy meals.
Nutrition Benefits
This dish aligns perfectly with the Mediterranean diet, which is often ranked among the healthiest eating patterns in the world.
Key Health Benefits:
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High-quality protein from lean ground beef
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Healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil
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Fiber-rich vegetables supporting digestion
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Low in processed ingredients
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Supports heart health, weight management, and balanced blood sugar
It’s especially attractive for audiences interested in clean eating recipes, anti-inflammatory diets, and natural weight loss meals.
Recipe Variations
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Keto Mediterranean Stir Fry: Use higher-fat beef and add olives
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Dairy-Free Version: Skip feta cheese
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Spicy Version: Add harissa paste or extra chili flakes
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Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap beef for leaner protein
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Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with chickpeas or lentils
Related Questions (SEO-Friendly FAQ Section)
Is Mediterranean ground beef stir fry healthy?
Yes, it is rich in protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, making it ideal for a balanced and nutritious diet.
Can I make this recipe low-carb or keto?
Absolutely. Serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a keto-friendly dinner.
What makes this dish Mediterranean?
The use of olive oil, herbs, garlic, fresh vegetables, and simple seasoning reflects classic Mediterranean cooking principles.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but fresh vegetables provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen, cook off excess moisture.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it perfect for healthy weekly meal planning.
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