Introduction:
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet is a one-pan wonder loaded with bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and lean protein. Inspired by classic Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, olives, and feta, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s perfect on its own, over rice, or with warm pita bread. Best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes!
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef or vegetable broth (or water)
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
🍳 Instructions & Methods:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Vegetables & Spices
- Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
- Season with oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are slightly tender.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste & Simmer
- Add tomato paste and mix well to coat everything.
- Pour in the broth (or water) and stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes until flavors meld and sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Stir in Olives & Finish
- Stir in sliced olives and cook for 1 more minute.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
🍽️ To Serve:
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta and chopped parsley.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
- Great with rice, quinoa, couscous, or flatbread.
✅ Tips & Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end.
- Swap protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb.
- Make it vegan: Use cooked lentils or plant-based ground instead of beef.