When I want something quick, satisfying, and low in carbs, I make this keto Mediterranean ground beef stir fry. It’s a one-skillet dish that combines juicy ground beef with bold spices, crisp veggies, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors like garlic, olives, and herbs. It’s a meal that’s as filling as it is flavorful—and it fits perfectly into my keto lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s easy to throw together in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand. The ground beef is seasoned with warming spices and tossed with fresh vegetables, then topped with tangy additions like feta and olives. It’s one of those dishes that’s just as good for meal prep as it is fresh from the skillet.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef (80/20 or leaner if preferred)
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Olive oil
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Garlic (minced)
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Red onion (sliced or chopped)
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Bell pepper (any color)
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Zucchini or spinach (for added greens)
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Cherry tomatoes (halved)
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Kalamata olives (sliced)
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Crumbled feta cheese
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Dried oregano
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Ground cumin
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Paprika
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Salt and black pepper
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Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. I drain excess grease if needed.
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I stir in the garlic, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5–7 minutes.
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I mix in cherry tomatoes, olives, and all the seasonings, then cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
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I remove the pan from heat and top with crumbled feta and a drizzle of lemon juice.
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I garnish with chopped parsley or extra olives if I want a little extra freshness.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is 15 minutes, and dinner is on the table in just 25 minutes.
Variations
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I substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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I add cauliflower rice for extra volume and texture.
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For a dairy-free option, I skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
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I sometimes stir in a spoonful of tahini or Greek yogurt on top for extra richness.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals until heated through. It also works well for meal prep—I portion it out with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
FAQs
Is this dish good for keto?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein—perfect for a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
Can I freeze this stir fry?
Yes, I freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet.
What kind of olives work best?
I usually use Kalamata for bold flavor, but green olives or a mix of both also work well.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. I’ve added spinach, mushrooms, eggplant, or even artichoke hearts for variety.
Does it need a sauce?
Not really—the juice from the tomatoes and the oil from the olives give it plenty of flavor, but I sometimes finish it with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
This keto Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something quick, nourishing, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for low-carb eating but satisfying enough for anyone to enjoy. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or making dinner in a pinch, this one-pan wonder always comes through.
Print
Keto Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry: A Low-Carb, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, One-Pan
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Keto
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This keto Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is a low-carb, one-pan wonder packed with bold flavors and healthy fats. Juicy ground beef is sautéed with Mediterranean vegetables, garlic, olives, and topped with creamy feta for a delicious, quick dinner that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ red onion (sliced or chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, sliced)
- 1 small zucchini (chopped) or 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional for garnish:
- Red pepper flakes
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
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Stir in garlic, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini (or spinach). Sauté for 5–7 minutes until veggies are tender.
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Add cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring to combine.
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Remove from heat and top with crumbled feta and a drizzle of lemon juice, if using.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or extra olives and serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve over cauliflower rice or with a side of zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.
- Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Use dairy-free feta to keep it dairy-free and still flavorful.
- For extra richness, drizzle with tahini or a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving.
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