This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a hearty one-pan meal packed with flavor. Ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta come together in a simple, satisfying dish.
The best part? It cooks in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! I love how the feta gives it a tasty twist—who doesn’t love a little cheese magic in their dinner? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option; however, you can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer something lighter.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but if you don’t have any, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a wonderful tang, but you can substitute it with goat cheese or even ricotta if you’re looking for something creamier.
Onion and Garlic: These two are essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder work as decent substitutes, but the fresh versions give the best results.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking ground beef perfectly is key to a tasty dish. Here’s what to do:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning while letting it cook through evenly.
- Break it up into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—160°F (71°C) is safe!
- If you see any excess grease after cooking, make sure to drain it to keep the dish from being too oily.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious beef and spinach skillet that’s simple to whip up and so satisfying! Enjoy!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy skillet meal will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes to cook. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will ensure a nice sizzle when you add the onions, which helps to unlock their flavors!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step adds a great depth of flavor to your dish.
3. Add Garlic:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful—it cooks quickly and you want it to be fragrant without burning!
4. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, which takes about 6-8 minutes. If you see a lot of grease, feel free to drain the excess.
5. Season the Mixture:
Stir in dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This is where the dish starts to smell amazing!
6. Add Spinach:
Now, it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it continuously for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. It might look like a lot at first, but it shrinks significantly!
7. Add Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta over the beef and spinach mixture. The heat will make the feta creamy and delicious!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread or fluffy rice. Enjoy your flavorful, easy skillet meal!
FAQs for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Another Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure it cooks through properly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything except for the feta ahead of time. Just cook the beef and spinach mixture, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat and then sprinkle the feta on top before serving.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa for a more filling meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables!
