This recipe is both delicious and practical. It uses simple pantry staples, cooks in one skillet, and delivers big Mediterranean flavor with minimal effort. It’s naturally gluten-free, kid-friendly, and easy to customize with vegetables or toppings. Plus, it makes great leftovers and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add tomato paste or diced tomatoes, if using, and stir to combine.
Fold in the cooked rice and mix well, cooking until heated through.
Stir in chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve hot, topped with your favorite Mediterranean garnishes.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Use lamb: Swap ground beef for ground lamb for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Low-carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.
Grain-free: Serve the spiced beef over a salad or inside lettuce wraps.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Is this Mediterranean ground beef and rice gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients, especially the spices and any add-ins, are certified gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe with brown rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and adds a slightly nutty flavor. Make sure it’s fully cooked before adding to the skillet.
What kind of ground beef should I use?
Lean ground beef (85–90% lean) works best to minimize grease while still adding flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat portions as needed throughout the week.
Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, cooked quinoa is a great substitute that adds extra protein and texture.
What herbs work best in this dish?
Fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint are excellent options. You can use a mix or choose your favorite.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes very well. Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
What sauces go well with this?
A drizzle of tahini sauce, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt pairs beautifully with the flavors in this dish.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
What sides pair well with this recipe?
Serve with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, hummus, or warm pita bread (gluten-free if needed).
Conclusion
Mediterranean Ground Beef and Rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is easy to make. With aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and simple ingredients, this recipe brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights or when you need a delicious, gluten-free meal everyone will enjoy.
Mediterranean Ground Beef and Rice is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant herbs. Infused with cumin, garlic, and lemon, this gluten-free dish captures the essence of Mediterranean comfort food in just 30 minutes.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp tomato paste or 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add tomato paste or diced tomatoes, if using, and mix to combine.
Fold in cooked rice and stir until heated through and well mixed.
Stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice.
Serve hot with optional Mediterranean toppings like feta, olives, or yogurt sauce.
Notes
Use lean ground beef (85–90%) to reduce grease.Add chopped spinach or diced veggies for extra nutrition.Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.This dish freezes well—perfect for meal prep.Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon zest for brightness.
