Introduction
The Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan meal inspired by the fresh, bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It combines juicy ground beef with tender zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic onions, garlic, oregano, and creamy feta cheese. This dish is perfect for busy days because it’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and deeply satisfying. Served on its own or alongside bread, rice, or couscous, it delivers comfort and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
500 g ground beef
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
100 g feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Preparation
Before cooking, prepare all vegetables by washing, slicing, and mincing as needed. This helps the cooking process move smoothly and ensures even cooking. Crumble the feta cheese and set it aside so it’s ready to finish the dish.
Cooking Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add both the red and yellow onions. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they soften and become slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, mixing well so the flavors distribute evenly.
Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften but still holds its shape. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they release their juices and create a light, flavorful sauce.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. The residual heat will slightly melt the feta while keeping its creamy texture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet dish can be served on its own as a low-carb meal or paired with warm pita bread, crusty bread, rice, quinoa, or couscous. It also works beautifully as a filling for wraps or stuffed into bell peppers.
Tips and Variations
For extra Mediterranean flavor, add sliced olives or a pinch of red chili flakes for heat. You can substitute ground lamb or chicken for the beef. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the dish even more.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein from the beef and feta, while zucchini and tomatoes provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Olive oil adds healthy fats, making this a balanced and wholesome meal.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together fresh ingredients and classic seasonings in one pan. Easy to prepare and full of color and taste, it’s an excellent choice for a hearty family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.