This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is a fusion of bold flavors, combining the creaminess of a jalapeño popper with the vibrant, fresh ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. Juicy ground beef is sautéed with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños, then tossed with a creamy, cheesy sauce and Mediterranean herbs. It’s a protein-packed dish that can be served over rice, couscous, or wrapped in a warm pita for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground lamb for a Mediterranean twist)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Jalapeño Popper Sauce:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- ½ cup shredded feta or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- Warm pita bread or naan
- Cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa
- Sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and chopped jalapeños to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting the spices bloom.
Step 3: Make the Jalapeño Popper Sauce
Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and shredded feta or mozzarella. Mix well until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the beef. Add lemon juice and fresh parsley, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Serve over rice, couscous, or quinoa, or scoop into warm pita bread. Garnish with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and extra parsley for freshness.
Variations
- Make it Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Add More Protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans.
- Extra Heat: Add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Different Cheeses: Try crumbled goat cheese or shredded cheddar instead of feta.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter, tangier sauce.
- Make it dairy-free by substituting coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hummus or tzatziki on the side.
- Add a fried egg on top for a breakfast version.
- Wrap in a tortilla for a Mediterranean-Jalapeño fusion taco.
Tips
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should stay slightly crisp.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- This dish reheats well—store in an airtight container and warm gently before serving.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 26g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Q: What’s the best way to add more Mediterranean flavor?
Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of tahini.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Just add a little extra olive oil since these meats are leaner.
Conclusion
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether served over grains or wrapped in a pita, it’s a quick, delicious meal that brings together two incredible cuisines!