Flavorful Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry – A One-Pan Dinner with Bold, Bright Flavor

Looking for a quick, wholesome dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is the answer. Packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and briny olives, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes—and tastes like something you’d get at a coastal taverna.

Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just need a weeknight meal with zero fuss, this skillet dinner delivers every time.


Why I Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect storm of easy, nutritious, and delicious. It’s protein-packed thanks to ground beef, loaded with vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes, and finished with Mediterranean staples like oregano, cumin, olives, and optional feta. It’s also super flexible—great with rice, quinoa, couscous, or even on its own.

If you’re a fan of easy, family-friendly dinners, check out our Dorito Casserole or Sheet Pan Quesadillas—perfect make-ahead companions.


📝 Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

🥄 Ingredient Tips & Swaps

  • Ground beef: Use 85/15 or leaner for less grease. Ground lamb or turkey also work.
  • Vegetable swaps: Eggplant, spinach, or artichoke hearts are great Mediterranean-style add-ins.
  • Dairy-free? Skip the feta or sub in a dairy-free version.
  • Add grains: Serve over rice, couscous, or quinoa for a complete bowl meal.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 7–8 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add Aromatics

Stir in the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Cook the Veggies

Add bell pepperzucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Season It Up

Sprinkle in oreganocuminpaprikasalt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything in Mediterranean flavor.

5. Finish with Flair

Stir in Kalamata olives and feta cheese (if using). Remove from heat.

6. Serve & Garnish

Top with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.


💡 Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the veggies: You want them vibrant and slightly crisp, not mushy.
  • Make it a meal prep star: Store in individual containers for easy lunches.
  • Go low-carb: Serve on a bed of cauliflower rice or eat as-is.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair this Mediterranean skillet with:

  • Couscous, quinoa, or bulgur
  • A warm slice of pita bread
  • A drizzle of tzatziki or a dollop of Greek yogurt
  • Roasted lemon potatoes or a side salad

For more one-pan dinner ideas, try our quick Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage or hearty Instant Pot Lasagna.


🧊 Storage & Leftover Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

🍽 More Weeknight Favorites You’ll Love


🔚 Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a skillet win—healthy, hearty, and full of flavor with zero boring bites. It’s ideal for busy nights when you want something that feels gourmet but cooks in under 30 minutes.

Tried it? Share your version and tag @ChefManiac! Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite veggie or spice combo.