The Mediterranean diet has long been celebrated for its balance, flavor, and emphasis on whole foods. It’s rooted in centuries-old culinary traditions from countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Italy, Turkey, and parts of North Africa and the Middle East. Its popularity in the United States has soared due to its association with heart health, vibrant vegetables, and savory herbs.
This Mediterranean ground beef recipe brings the best of both worlds: the deep, savory taste of seasoned beef, enhanced by the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean pantry. It is reimagined for a modern audience that values low-carb, keto-friendly meals without sacrificing satisfaction or taste. Ideal for warm summer evenings, this dish is designed to be served hot, and it pairs beautifully with other light, seasonal side dishes.
In this version, we use simple ingredients that are easy to find at most supermarkets, but we layer them with classic Mediterranean seasonings to create a full-bodied, one-pan dish that suits both weeknight meals and entertaining.
Table of Contents
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6
- Diet: Keto, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
- Course: Main
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American fusion
- Dish Type: Hot
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients for Mediterranean Ground Beef
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal flavor)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Mediterranean Add-Ins
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh Herbs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled feta cheese (omit for dairy-free)
- Greek yogurt or keto-friendly sour cream substitute
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch and added healthy fats
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mediterranean Ground Beef
1. Prepare the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced onions and sauté for about 4 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to become fragrant but not browned.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains, which should take approximately 7 to 9 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if the mixture seems greasy but leave a small amount for flavor.
3. Add the Seasonings
With the beef still in the skillet, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure the meat is evenly coated in the seasoning blend. Let this cook for another 3 minutes so the spices can fully infuse the beef.
4. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the zucchini and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender. Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish with Herbs and Citrus
Just before serving, add the fresh lemon juice. Stir through the chopped parsley and mint. The residual heat will soften the herbs slightly while maintaining their fresh, vibrant flavor.
6. Plate and Garnish
Spoon into individual bowls or a serving platter. If desired, top with crumbled feta, a spoonful of yogurt, or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean ground beef recipe is versatile and satisfying on its own. However, it can be elevated even further when paired with complementary keto-friendly dishes:
- Cauliflower Rice: A great substitute for couscous or traditional rice.
- Grilled Eggplant Slices: Brushed with olive oil and lightly charred.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light and refreshing, they soak up the rich beef sauce.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the beef mixture as a filling for hollowed-out peppers, then bake.
Storage and Meal Prep
This dish keeps exceptionally well and is perfect for meal prepping.
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove for best results.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 25g
- Total Fat: 25g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
This nutritional breakdown ensures the dish aligns well with a ketogenic diet while still being satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Mediterranean ground beef recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it’s an excellent dish for meal prep. The flavors develop even further after a day in the fridge, making it ideal for next-day lunches or quick reheats during the week.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. You can freeze the cooked mixture in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground lamb, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor profile. Ground lamb, in particular, maintains the Mediterranean essence quite well.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly. Sautéed spinach, eggplant, or artichoke hearts make great additions and still align with Mediterranean and keto principles.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
The base recipe is dairy-free. Feta and yogurt toppings are optional and can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives as needed.
How spicy is this dish?
Mild to medium. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be increased or omitted based on your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meat and onions beforehand, then transfer all ingredients (except fresh herbs and lemon juice) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, stir in the herbs and lemon juice before serving.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Recipe
A flavorful and keto-friendly Mediterranean ground beef recipe made with summer vegetables and aromatic herbs, served hot and fresh.
- Skillet
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 medium zucchini (diced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (diced)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint (chopped)
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add ground beef. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if needed.
Mix in spices: salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Stir in zucchini, tomatoes, olives, peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until veggies are tender.
Finish with lemon juice, parsley, and mint. Stir and serve hot.
This dish is perfect for keto diets and can be meal prepped ahead of time.
More Mediterranean & Ground Beef Meals to Try
- Craving something saucier and veggie-rich? Make this Delicious Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry.
- For a protein-packed grain bowl, try the popular Mediterranean Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls.
- Prefer steak? These Delicious Mediterranean Steak Bowls are packed with bold flavor and fresh herbs.
- Need something cozy? Go for the Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef Potatoes—a hearty classic.
- Try a creamy twist with Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice for a family-favorite dinner.
- Cutting carbs? Check out the low-carb and flavor-loaded Burger Bowls Recipe.
Conclusion
Mediterranean ground beef recipe captures the heart of summer with its fresh vegetables, bold spices, and bright herbs—all while being completely keto-friendly. Whether you’re preparing a simple dinner or looking to impress at a weekend gathering, this dish brings depth and warmth to the table.
Ground beef may seem like a humble ingredient, but when paired with traditional Mediterranean elements like olives, lemon, and fresh herbs, it transforms into something extraordinary. Moreover, this dish honors the American desire for hearty meals while embracing the Mediterranean commitment to wholesome, balanced nutrition.
Perfect for hot summer nights and adaptable for any time of year, this recipe is a standout addition to your healthy cooking repertoire.
