This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal that brings a mix of flavors to your table. With ground beef, fresh veggies, and herbs, it’s a colorful dish!
You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it over rice or with warm pita. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your tastebuds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use lean beef for less fat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. They’re healthier but still tasty!
Egg Noodles: I love egg noodles for their chewy texture. However, you could easily swap them for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options like rice noodles or spiralized zucchini for a low-carb choice.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice crunch. If you want to change things up, bell peppers or spinach work great too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes instead for the same flavor boost.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty zing. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or even a dollop of plain yogurt for creaminess without the tang.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Beef Stir-Fry?
The key to a great stir-fry is the cooking order and technique. Start by browning the beef properly to develop flavor. Too much moisture can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Heat your skillet first! A hot pan helps achieve a nice sear.
- Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and prevents large clumps.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed, so the beef can brown nicely.
When adding veggies, cook them until they’re tender but not mushy. This keeps that refreshing crunch and vibrant color. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
How to Make Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups egg noodles (or your choice of pasta)
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste or 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes for a slight saucy touch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then another 15 minutes cooking! It’s a quick, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
First, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set them aside for later. You want them ready to soak up all the flavorful goodness!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season it with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika for that Mediterranean flair!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s a lot of fat in the pan, you can drain some out, but leave about 1 tablespoon for flavor. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, and sauté the diced red onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes, until they are fragrant and softened.
4. Add Veggies:
Next, toss in the chopped zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them together for about 4-5 minutes so they become tender but still have a little bit of crunch. You want those vibrant colors to shine!
5. Combine and Cook:
Now, stir the cooked beef back into the skillet, along with the optional tomato paste or crushed tomatoes if you want a saucier dish. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to meld all the flavors beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat, and mix in the freshly chopped parsley. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish!
7. Serve:
To serve, spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the cooked egg noodles. Lastly, sprinkle generous amounts of crumbled feta cheese on top for that salty, creamy finish. Enjoy your hearty Mediterranean stir-fry full of flavors!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic leaner option. Just be aware that it may require a slightly shorter cooking time since it doesn’t have as much fat as beef.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
What If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute with any pasta you like or use alternatives such as quinoa, couscous, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to sneak in some bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep everything tender but crisp!
