Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with these 18 flavorful beef recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings! From hearty stews and rich meatballs to vibrant salads and savory casseroles, we’ve gathered a collection of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the bold flavors and aromas of this beloved cuisine.
In the following pages, you’ll discover a world of Mediterranean-inspired delights, each one bursting with juicy beef, zesty herbs, and tangy spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
From classic combinations like beef and eggplant to innovative twists like beef and pomegranate glaze, these Mediterranean beef recipes are sure to inspire your cooking and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, take a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
Mediterranean Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines juicy beef with aromatic spices and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, feta cheese, and olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Beef Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with these savory meatballs served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this classic combination is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with Tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, stirring until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Mediterranean Beef and Olive Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef with the savory taste of olives and a hint of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add olives, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and browned beef. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beef and Eggplant Moussaka
Moussaka, a hearty and flavorful dish, is a staple of Greek cuisine. This recipe combines tender beef and eggplant with a rich béchamel sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook beef in a pan until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices until tender and lightly browned.
4. Combine cooked beef, eggplant, onion, garlic, tomato puree, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese and milk to make the béchamel sauce.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer ingredients in this order: beef-eggplant mixture, béchamel sauce, and repeat until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of béchamel on top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Crusted Mediterranean Beef Roast
Transform your roast into a flavorful masterpiece with this herb-crusted Mediterranean beef roast recipe. This dish combines the tender juiciness of beef with the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as top round or rump)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Season the beef roast with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the beef roast, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Beef and Spinach Phyllo Pie
This Greek-inspired pie combines the richness of beef and spinach with the flaky, buttery goodness of phyllo pastry. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
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
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic until browned.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Mix in cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
5. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
6. Layer phyllo sheets with the beef mixture, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Mediterranean Beef Kebabs with Lemon Herb Marinade
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and colorful kebabs, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner. A tangy lemon herb marinade infuses the beef with aromatic goodness, while the Mediterranean-inspired veggies add a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tomatoes, cut into 1-inch wedges
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beef cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef, bell peppers, onion, and tomatoes onto skewers.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Artichoke Tagine
This hearty tagine combines tender beef with the sweetness of artichokes, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or tagine over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, artichoke hearts, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add browned beef back to the pot, along with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Mediterranean Beef and Feta Stuffed Zucchini
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with the sweetness of zucchini. This stuffed vegetable dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the meat mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Chickpea Mediterranean Salad
This hearty salad combines tender beef strips with creamy chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, all infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
3. Slice grilled beef into thin strips and add to the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of beef, lentils, and Mediterranean spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Beef and Tomato Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a North African-inspired dish that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. This beef and tomato version adds a rich, savory flavor to the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in the mixed tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Return the beef strips to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Orzo Casserole
Mediterranean Beef and Orzo Casserole Recipe
Summary:
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with tender beef, creamy orzo, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; 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 chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta with beef mixture; transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Pomegranate Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of beef with the tanginess of pomegranate. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice and honey.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with pomegranate glaze. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Hummus Flatbread
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious flatbread recipe, featuring tender beef, creamy hummus, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package flatbread or pita bread (6-8 pieces)
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Warm flatbread according to package instructions.
5. Spread hummus on each flatbread piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with beef mixture and feta cheese crumbles (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines tender beef strips with sweet roasted red peppers and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) beef strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (115g) roasted red peppers, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in roasted red peppers, chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve sauce over cooked pasta. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
Mediterranean Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines tender beef, nutty quinoa, and a hint of Mediterranean spices with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and mix well.
6. Stuff each tomato with the beef and quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Herb-Stuffed Grape Leaves
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of beef and herbs with the tender, slightly sweet grape leaves to create a delicious and unique dish. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, dill, scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay grape leaves flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat 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. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add stuffed grape leaves and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned.
6. Transfer the grape leaves to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering Mediterranean beef recipes! From hearty stews and casseroles to flavorful skewers and wraps, this collection has something for everyone. Try stuffing bell peppers or zucchini with tender beef and feta cheese, or indulge in Greek-style meatballs with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or comforting, these Mediterranean-inspired dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab some olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, and get cooking!
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