There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet full of sizzling veggies and juicy ground beef, especially when it’s kissed with Mediterranean spices.
This dish has become my go-to when I want something hearty, colorful, and full of flavor—yet still simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bursting with bold spices and fresh veggies
One-pan recipe = less cleanup
Quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes
Customizable with what you have on hand
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – I use lean ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Red bell pepper & zucchini – Add color, crunch, and that perfect stir-fry bite.
Cherry tomatoes – Bursty and slightly sweet, they round out the dish.
Mediterranean spices – Cumin, paprika, oregano, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes.
Feta cheese – Optional, but highly recommended for that salty finish.
Lemon wedges – A squeeze of lemon at the end wakes up all the flavors.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Prep ahead: Chop all your veggies before turning on the stove. Stir-fries move fast.
Use high heat: A hot pan helps everything cook quickly without steaming.
Don’t overcook the veggies: You want them crisp-tender for that perfect texture.
Taste as you go: Adjust salt, pepper, and spice based on your personal preference.
How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry
Step 1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2. Cook the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Season with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Continue cooking for 6–8 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
Step 3. Add the Vegetables
Stir in red bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until just tender.
Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, just until they start to soften.
Step 4. Finish the Dish
Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
Top with crumbled feta cheese if using.
Serve warm with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
What to Serve It With
Steamed white or brown rice
Nutty quinoa
Toasted pita bread or naan
Cool sides like tzatziki, hummus, or tabbouleh
A crisp Greek salad for extra freshness
Variations / Substitutions
Make it low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or serve in lettuce cups.
Use another protein: Ground turkey or chicken also work beautifully.
Go dairy-free: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or kale to bulk it up.
Add beans: Chickpeas or white beans add plant-based protein and texture.
Storage & Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container:
Fridge: Up to 4 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months (minus the feta)
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in this stir fry?
Yes, just thaw and drain them well first so they don’t water down the dish.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly! You can omit the red pepper flakes for a kid-friendly version.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.
What’s the best beef to use?
Lean ground beef (85–90%) works best—flavorful but not greasy.
Do I need to add lemon juice?
Highly recommended! It brightens and balances the richness of the beef.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You sure can—swap the beef for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.
Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
Totally. It stores and reheats well, and pairs with a variety of grains and sides.
Final Thoughts
This ground beef stir fry is everything I want in a weeknight dinner—quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.
The blend of spices gives it a warm Mediterranean soul, while the fresh veggies add crunch and color.
Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this skillet meal is a crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.
Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, break it up, and season with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, until browned.
- Stir in red bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 4–5 minutes until tender.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/ground-beef-stir-fry-2/
Notes
