Description
This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean ingredients with a spicy kick from jalapeños, creating a creamy, savory dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Featuring ground beef cooked with aromatic spices, tangy feta, creamy cream cheese, and a medley of vegetables including olives and bell peppers, this stir fry is perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crumbled feta (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced jalapeños to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Then add the red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Incorporate the Mediterranean flavors: Stir in the sliced green olives, cream cheese, and crumbled feta cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy and well-combined.
- Season the stir fry: Sprinkle in the oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spices are well-distributed and the mixture is flavorful. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Once everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the stir fry immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, additional crumbled feta if desired, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Enjoy: Serve this stir fry on its own or with your favorite side, such as rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Notes
- Removing jalapeño seeds reduces heat but preserves flavor. Adjust according to your spice preference.
- Drain excess fat after cooking beef to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Use softened cream cheese for easier melting and a smoother texture.
- For a lower-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
- Additional red pepper flakes can enhance the spiciness if desired.
