This easy ground beef and spinach skillet is a tasty one-pan wonder! With juicy beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese, it’s quick to make and bursting with flavor.
Seriously, who knew dinner could be this simple? I love how everything cooks together in one pan—less mess and more time to enjoy your meal! Plus, that feta on top is just perfect! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! I recommend using lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean) to keep it healthier. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but if you have frozen spinach, that works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. You can also use kale or Swiss chard if you’re looking to mix things up.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, tangy touch, but if you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Vegan feta alternatives are also available for those with dietary restrictions!
How Do I Make Sure My Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might seem straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure it’s perfect every time:
- Use medium heat to prevent the beef from burning. Start with a preheated skillet and add olive oil.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces for even cooking. Use a spatula to crumble it as it cooks.
- Cook until browned all the way through, with no pink visible. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
- Season the beef while it cooks. This helps infuse flavor throughout.
Following these steps will give you a juicy, flavorful beef base for your skillet dish!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (about 5-6 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Optional: red chili flakes or freshly chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick dinner option at just 25 minutes total! Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something hearty yet effortless.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a lovely base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano as it cooks to infuse flavor.
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Once the beef is browned, add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it in frequently until the spinach wilts and cooks down, about 3-4 minutes. This adds lots of nutrients and color to your meal!
5. Season to Taste:
Taste your skillet mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary before removing it from heat.
6. Add Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the skillet. You can gently mix it in for a creamy consistency or leave it on top for a lovely garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beef and spinach skillet warm on its own or with a side of crusty bread, rice, or quinoa. For a little kick, add red chili flakes or sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a fresh look!
Enjoy this simple, nutritious, and delicious ground beef and spinach skillet!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based ground meat or even chickpeas for a protein-rich alternative.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach works well too. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. You can also use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of olive oil to maintain the creamy texture of the feta!
Can I Customize the Flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices like basil or cumin to suit your taste preferences.
