Ground beef stir fry has become my go-to for busy weeknights, ever since I discovered this incredibly flavorful and simple recipe. I remember the first time I made it – the aroma of sizzling beef and Mediterranean spices filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. My family couldn’t get enough of the tender beef, crisp vegetables, and that hint of lemon and feta that just makes it sing. It’s truly an easy ground beef stir fry that delivers big on taste without a lot of fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stir Fry
- It’s incredibly flavorful with a unique Mediterranean twist.
- You get a complete meal in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- This is a truly quick ground beef stir fry, perfect for when time is short.
- It’s packed with healthy vegetables, making it a satisfying ground beef stir fry with vegetables.
- The combination of spices and fresh herbs is simply irresistible.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or a kick of spice.
- It’s a fantastic way to get a nutritious dinner on the table fast.
- This recipe proves that a simple stir fry can be incredibly exciting!
Ground Beef Stir Fry Ingredients
Gathering these ground beef stir fry ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. I love how simple they are! We’ll use 1 pound ground beef – the leaner, the better for this dish. For that Mediterranean flair, we add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion finely chopped, and 3 cloves garlic minced. The veggies include 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced, 1 zucchini cut into half-moons, and 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved. For flavor, we have 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, plus salt and black pepper to taste. A pinch of 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) adds a nice warmth. Finally, for that fresh finish, you’ll need 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped and 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional). While this isn’t a traditional ground beef stir fry Asian style, these components create a wonderfully unique flavor profile.
How to Make Ground Beef Stir Fry
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make ground beef stir fry! This is where the magic happens, transforming simple components into a delicious meal. I’ve found that following these steps ensures a perfect outcome every time, making this a truly stellar ground beef stir fry recipe.
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the 1 onion finely chopped and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add the 3 cloves garlic minced and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
- Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Use your spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season generously with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and of course, salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add that 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked through. This is where the base of our flavorful ground beef stir fry sauce starts to develop.
- Step 3: Add Vegetables
It’s time to add the fresh veggies! Toss in the 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced and the 1 zucchini cut into half-moons. Sauté these with the beef for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to still have a little bite. Finally, add the 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved and cook for another 2 minutes, just until they begin to soften and release some of their juices.
- Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped for a burst of freshness. If you’re using it, sprinkle the 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled over the top. This finishing touch really makes it the best ground beef stir fry. Give it a gentle toss to combine. Serve this flavorful dish immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy this simple yet delicious meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stir Fry
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish from good to amazing. Follow these tips for the most delicious results:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef. Browning it properly is key to flavor.
- Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes a little more salt or spice is all you need!
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your spices briefly in the dry skillet before adding the oil.
What’s the secret to perfect ground beef stir fry?
The secret is in the browning of the beef and not overcooking the vegetables. When you get a nice sear on the beef, you build a fantastic flavor base. Keeping the vegetables tender-crisp ensures they still have a lovely bite, making for a truly simple ground beef stir fry experience.
Can I make ground beef stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prep all your ingredients – chop the veggies, measure out spices, and even cook the beef. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for ground beef stir fry meal prep. Just combine and finish cooking when you’re ready to eat.
How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef stir fry?
A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which steams the beef instead of browning it. Cook the beef in batches if needed. Another pitfall is overcooking the vegetables into mush; keep them in the pan for just a few minutes. This helps maintain the integrity of a healthy ground beef stir fry.
Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Stir Fry
This versatile dish is wonderful on its own, but I love serving it with a few different accompaniments to make it a complete meal. For a classic comfort food experience, try this ground beef stir fry with rice. Fluffy white rice or brown rice is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option or want something different, this ground beef stir fry without noodles is fantastic served over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even with warm pita bread for scooping. Whichever way you choose, it’s sure to be a hit!
Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Stir Fry
Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious ground beef stir fry. It’s a satisfying meal that offers a good balance of nutrients.
- Calories: 320
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Stir Fry
One of the best things about this flavorful ground beef stir fry is how well it keeps, making it perfect for your next ground beef stir fry for dinner later in the week. Once you’ve finished cooking, let the stir fry cool down completely at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored stir fry, there are a couple of easy reheating methods. For refrigerated portions, you can either gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s nice and hot. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first, then use one of the methods above. You might need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore some moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Stir Fry
Can I make this a spicy ground beef stir fry?
Absolutely! If you love a little heat, you can easily transform this recipe into a spicy ground beef stir fry. Just increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or even a full teaspoon, depending on your tolerance. You could also add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef while it’s cooking for an extra kick.
What other vegetables work well in this ground beef stir fry?
This recipe is very forgiving when it comes to vegetables! I often add ground beef stir fry with broccoli florets; they cook up perfectly tender-crisp in about the same time as the zucchini. Other great additions include sliced carrots, snow peas, snap peas, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the very end until it wilts. Just ensure you cut them to a similar size for even cooking.
My ground beef stir fry turned out a bit dry, what did I do wrong?
Don’t worry, it happens! The most common reason for a dry stir fry is overcrowding the pan, which prevents the beef from browning properly. Try cooking the ground beef in two batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Also, make sure you’re not overcooking the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Adding a splash of broth or water at the end can help revive a drier stir fry.
Can I use this recipe as a ground beef stir fry meal prep option?
Yes, this is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can cook the entire stir fry ahead of time and portion it into individual containers. It holds up well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. It’s a fantastic way to have a healthy and delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.
Variations of Ground Beef Stir Fry You Can Try
While this Mediterranean-inspired version is fantastic, there are so many ways to switch up your ground beef stir fry! It’s a really adaptable dish. For a truly ground beef stir fry easy recipe variation, try adding a bit of soy sauce or tamari along with the spices for a more classic Asian flavor profile. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also make it vegetarian by using crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of meat. For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a swirl of your favorite hot sauce at the end. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables too; mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn all work wonderfully!
Print
Ground Beef Stir Fry: 1 Easy Mediterranean Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful one-skillet ground beef stir fry made with juicy beef, fresh vegetables, and warm Mediterranean spices. This easy ground beef stir fry recipe is topped with feta cheese and lemon wedges for a zesty finish, offering a healthy and satisfying dinner option that comes together fast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini cut into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- 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 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.
- Add red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, just until they start to soften.
- Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Top with crumbled feta cheese if using. Serve this ground beef stir fry warm with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for best results in this ground beef stir fry.
- Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking in your ground beef and vegetable stir fry.
- This ground beef stir fry recipe pairs well with rice, quinoa, or flatbread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
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