This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a quick and hearty meal! With tender beef, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of creamy feta, it’s a tasty dish you’ll love.
Your kitchen will smell amazing while you cook this! Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so less time washing dishes for you. Win-win! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this dish, but you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option. This can change the flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference!
Spinach: Fresh spinach really elevates this dish. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well beforehand. Some people love kale, which can also work but may require a bit longer to cook.
Feta Cheese: I recommend using feta for that creamy touch. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or ricotta can also add creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free feta alternatives available in stores.
Onion and Garlic: Yellow or white onions are perfect, but red onions can add a bit of sweetness. If you’re out of fresh garlic, a pinch of garlic powder will do in a pinch!
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might seem simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning and achieve a nice brown color. High heat can lead to uneven cooking.
- Break the meat into small pieces with your spatula while it cooks. This helps it brown nicely and not clump together.
- Make sure to drain excess fat once the beef is cooked for a lighter dish.
This way, you can have juicy and well-cooked beef in your skillet without it being greasy!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal can be prepared in just about 20 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and another 10 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Sautéing the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to smell delicious!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook this for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. If there’s extra fat in the skillet, feel free to drain it.
4. Flavor it Up:
Time to add flavor! Stir in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the spices coat the beef evenly.
5. Add the Spinach:
Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the spinach! Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir frequently until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Top with Feta:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of your cooked beef and spinach mixture. The warmth will help soften the feta even more.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish the dish with fresh parsley. Serve this savory skillet meal warm, and enjoy it alongside rice, quinoa, or some crusty bread to soak up all the flavors!
Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious skillet meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef to make the dish lighter. Just be aware that the flavor and fat content will differ slightly, so adjust seasonings to taste!
Can I Make This Skillet Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the ground beef. Substitute it with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based meat alternatives for protein. Just be sure to maintain the seasoning for flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and add them earlier in the cooking process so they have time to cook through.
