This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal! Packed with juicy beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
What I love most is how quick it comes together—perfect for busy nights! Just throw everything in the skillet, let it cook, and enjoy a delicious dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe calls for ground beef, which adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken are great alternatives. Even plant-based ground meat works well if you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this skillet. You can swap it for frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid. Kale or Swiss chard can also be used for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or cotage cheese for a milder taste. For a dairy-free version, use crumbled tofu with some added seasoning!
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be straightforward, but you want to achieve that perfect brown. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and the olive oil heated. This helps in browning the meat nicely.
- Break the beef apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Don’t overcrowd the pan if you’re using more than one pound—this can steam rather than brown!
- Cook until it’s browned all over, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, just drain it to avoid a greasy dish.
Following these tips helps ensure your beef is flavorful and perfectly cooked for the skillet! Enjoy your wholesome meal!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, for a total of about 25 minutes to get this delicious meal on the table. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Cook the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef directly to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and no longer pink; this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, be sure to drain it off.
3. Season and Mix in Spinach:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Then, start adding the chopped spinach in batches. Stir it frequently, letting it wilt down for about 2-3 minutes until all the spinach is incorporated.
4. Add Feta and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and evenly sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the mixture. Let it sit for a minute to allow the feta to soften slightly. If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. You can enjoy this dish warm on its own or pair it with rice, quinoa, or warm pita bread!
Enjoy your wholesome and tasty meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. It will still absorb the flavors of the garlic and spices but may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or even chopped mushrooms or lentils for added protein. The cooking steps remain the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to add them in during the onion cooking stage so they have enough time to soften.
