Are you tired of the same old ground beef dishes? Look no further! The Mediterranean region is renowned for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and bold spices, making it the perfect inspiration for a culinary adventure. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the sun-kissed Mediterranean, exploring 20 mouthwatering recipes that combine the humble ground beef with the region’s signature ingredients: juicy tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, fragrant herbs, and more.
From hearty stews to vibrant wraps, these Mediterranean-inspired dishes are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 flavorful recipes that will transport your senses to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast.
Mediterranean Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of beef with the brightness of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and top with feta cheese crumbles (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Beef Moussaka
A classic Greek dish, Moussaka is a layered masterpiece of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy bechamel. This recipe simplifies the traditional method to bring you a deliciously authentic flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add garlic, tomato puree, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Assemble the Moussaka: Layer cooked noodles, beef mixture, and bechamel sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt to taste
Combine butter and flour in a saucepan, whisking smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened. Season with salt.
Beef and Spinach Phyllo Pie
A classic Greek-inspired pie filled with tender beef, wilted spinach, and crispy phyllo pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing phyllo
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.
6. Layer the phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with some of the beaten egg.
7. Spoon the beef and spinach mixture over the phyllo, then sprinkle with cheese and breadcrumbs.
8. Top with another layer of phyllo and brush with the remaining egg.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Beef Kofta Kebabs
Mediterranean Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these juicy and aromatic beef koftas, infused with the warmth of cumin and coriander.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 10-12 portions, depending on desired size for skewers.
4. Thread each portion onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each kofta.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Eggplant Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines tender beef with the sweetness of eggplant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the beef mixture over the eggplant, followed by marinara sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and flavorful Mediterranean spices. Serve with crusty bread or over couscous for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell pepper, and oregano. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Stuffed Grape Leaves
A flavorful twist on traditional dolmas, this recipe combines tender beef with tangy grape leaves and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay grape leaves flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of each leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Brush the tops of the stuffed grape leaves with olive oil and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the grape leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Feta Meatballs
Mediterranean Beef and Feta Meatballs Recipe
Elevate your appetizers with these flavorful meatballs, inspired by the Mediterranean region’s bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll each meatball to coat evenly.
5. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Beef and Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional beef dishes, these boats pack a punch of savory flavor from the tender beef and crunchy zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns, toasted (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each zucchini round with about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each boat.
6. Drizzle with marinara sauce and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
8. Serve hot with toasted hamburger buns (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Beef Pita Pockets
A flavorful twist on traditional sandwiches, these Mediterranean Beef Pita Pockets are packed with tender beef, crispy vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Crisp lettuce leaves
– Sliced cucumber
– Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble the pockets by spooning the beef mixture onto a pita bread, followed by a dollop of tzatziki sauce and toppings of your choice.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Tagine
This hearty tagine recipe combines the rich flavors of beef with the nutty goodness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or tagine over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and beef broth; season with salt and black pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mediterranean Beef and Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with tender beef, fluffy rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked rice, beef strips, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Tomato Shakshuka
A flavorful twist on the classic North African dish, this Beef and Tomato Shakshuka combines tender beef with juicy tomatoes, spices, and eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (cherry, grape, and/or Roma)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 eggs
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add onions to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Create 4 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cover skillet with a lid and cook until eggs are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Hummus Flatbread
This flavorful flatbread combines the savory taste of beef with the creamy goodness of hummus, all wrapped up in a crispy Mediterranean-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cooked beef (such as gyro meat or thinly sliced steak), chopped
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Top with chopped beef, hummus, feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice.
6. Fold the flatbread in half and cook in a preheated skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Artichoke Stuffed Shells
Beef and Artichoke Stuffed Shells Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the classic flavors of beef and artichokes with the comfort of stuffed shells, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-14 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
4. Stir in artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef-artichoke mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells, followed by mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Mediterranean Beef and Couscous Salad
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the rich flavors of beef, couscous, and Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked beef (such as flank steak or ground beef), diced
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Fluff with a fork.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced beef and cook until heated through.
5. Combine cooked couscous, beef mixture, olives, feta cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Toss to combine and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory and flavorful crostini, perfect for any gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup beef tenderloin, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive tapenade
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Top each slice with a piece of beef tenderloin, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive tapenade over the beef, followed by crumbled blue cheese (if using).
5. Sprinkle chopped thyme leaves (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Orzo Bake
A hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the richness of beef with the comfort of orzo pasta, all wrapped up in a Mediterranean-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, parsley, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta and beef mixture.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Elevate your snack game with this savory and flavorful dip, perfect for parties or gatherings. This recipe combines the richness of beef with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked beef (such as roast or ground), cooled
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and roasted
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cooled beef, roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix until well combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a dip recipe)
Mediterranean Beef and Herb Meatloaf
Transform your meatloaf game with this flavorful Mediterranean twist, featuring rich beef, aromatic herbs, and a hint of tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Add feta cheese and beaten egg; mix until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 flavorful Mediterranean ground beef recipes! From hearty stews to savory casseroles, and from appetizers to main courses, this collection has something for everyone. Discover delicious dishes like Mediterranean Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, Greek-Style Beef Moussaka, and Beef and Spinach Phyllo Pie. These recipes are sure to transport your palate to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
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