High Protein RecipeRecipe

Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet

Updated on 5 min read


A quick, flavor-packed one-pan dinner inspired by classic Mediterranean ingredients like olives, feta, and warm spices—perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.

Servings & Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Dietary Notes

  • Gluten-Free (when served without grains)
  • Low-Carb Friendly
  • High-Protein

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, lightly drained
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until fully browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften but still have some bite.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in the sliced Kalamata olives and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and finish with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Additional Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.
  • This dish naturally fits a gluten-free diet when served without grains.
  • Ingredient substitutions and variations are listed below.

Brief Introduction

This Mediterranean ground beef skillet is one of those dependable, no-fuss dinners that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It brings together savory beef, tender vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta in a single pan, making cleanup easy and dinner stress-free. It’s especially handy on nights when you want something hearty but still fresh and balanced.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Building the Flavor Base

Start by gently cooking the onion in olive oil until soft. This step lays the foundation for the dish, ensuring a sweet, aromatic base. When the garlic goes in, keep it brief—garlic burns quickly and should only cook until fragrant.

Tip: If the garlic starts browning, lower the heat slightly to avoid bitterness.

Browning the Beef

Add the ground beef and break it up thoroughly. Browning it properly adds depth of flavor and prevents a steamed texture.

Tip: Let the beef sit untouched for a minute or two before stirring to develop better browning.

Adding Vegetables and Seasoning

Bell pepper and zucchini add color, texture, and freshness. Once slightly tender, the tomatoes and spices bring everything together into a cohesive skillet meal.

Tip: If the mixture looks too wet, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Finishing Touches

Olives add a salty, briny punch, while feta provides creaminess and contrast. Adding these at the end keeps their flavors distinct and bright.

Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips

Key Ingredients Explained

  • Kalamata Olives: These add signature Mediterranean depth. Their bold, tangy flavor balances the richness of the beef.
  • Feta Cheese: A salty, creamy finish that ties everything together. Sheep’s milk feta offers the most authentic flavor.

Quality & Selection Tips

  • Choose firm zucchini with smooth skin for the best texture.
  • Use high-quality canned tomatoes for better flavor, even when lightly drained.

Substitutions

  • No Kalamata olives: Substitute green olives or omit entirely.
  • No feta: Use crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative.
  • Different protein: Ground turkey or chicken works well; add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to prevent dryness.

Equipment Alternatives

  • Any large, heavy-bottomed skillet works. If using a stainless-steel pan, preheat well to prevent sticking.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky note.
  • Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end until wilted.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Dietary Variations

  • Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce cups or over cauliflower rice.
  • Dairy-Free: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.

Serving and Presentation

  • Serve over couscous, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
  • Spoon into warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-style wrap.
  • Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-style touch.

Pairing Suggestions

This pairs well with a simple cucumber-tomato salad and sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Make-Ahead Information

Storage Instructions

Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can chop all vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator to speed up cooking.

Shelf Life & Quality Notes

The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more flavorful the next day.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g

Dietary Highlights: High-protein, low-carb friendly
Allergens: Contains dairy

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground beef with higher fat content?
Yes, but be sure to drain excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy final dish.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: My skillet seems watery—what went wrong?
The tomatoes may not have been drained enough. Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce moisture.

Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and works great for make-ahead lunches.

Optional Personal Notes

This recipe is a go-to when you want bold flavors without committing to a long cooking session. It’s endlessly adaptable and forgiving, which makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. If you try a variation or serve it in a creative way, feel free to share your experience and results.

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