Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Stir in the diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, and sliced cremini mushrooms, sautéing for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper, stirring for 60 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and add the dry pearled barley, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender and has absorbed most of the savory liquid.
Remove from heat and let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.