Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet

Description

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, nutritious, and flavor-packed one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef with fresh vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and warm spices. Finished with a sprinkle of feta and a squeeze of lemon, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients for Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions

1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

3. Add vegetables: Stir in bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.

4. Mix in chickpeas and tomatoes: Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juice), cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.

6. Finish: Turn off heat. Squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle with crumbled feta and chopped herbs.

7. Serve: Serve warm on its own, or with warm pita, couscous, quinoa, or rice.

Notes

• Substitute beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.

• For added richness, drizzle with tahini or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.

• You can add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.

Tips

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa.

• Meal prep: Makes great leftovers for up to 4 days in the fridge.

• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as-is.

Servings

Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 24g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 620mg

Benefits

• High in protein – supports muscle repair and fullness.

• Rich in fiber – from chickpeas and vegetables.

• One-pan simplicity – minimal cleanup, quick cooking.

• Mediterranean flavors – anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy ingredients.

Q/A

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes! Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: It pairs well with pita bread, couscous, rice, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free (double-check canned ingredients for additives).

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Use 3–4 medium tomatoes, diced, and simmer slightly longer to reduce liquid.