This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a quick treat! Tender beef meets healthy spinach, all topped with creamy feta. It’s like a hearty embrace in a bowl!
I love how simple this dish is—just one pan! You can whip it up on a busy night and still enjoy a nutritious meal. Who doesn’t love easy clean-up? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter dish. I personally prefer a mix of lean beef for flavor without too much fat.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, giving a nice texture and flavor. If you have frozen spinach, that’s great too! Just thaw and squeeze out the excess water before using. I find fresh really brightens up the dish.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty kick. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese works well, or you could skip it altogether for a dairy-free version. I adore the tangy flavor of feta in this dish!
Onion and Garlic: These are key for flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can be used, though fresh ingredients are always preferred for best results.
How Do I Ensure My Spinach Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking spinach can be tricky; you want it wilted but not overcooked. Here’s how to do it right:
- Add the spinach in batches to the skillet. This helps it wilt down evenly.
- Stir frequently, allowing the spinach to cook down without turning mushy.
- This process should take only about 3-5 minutes—just until it’s vibrant green and tender.
Remember, spinach reduces significantly in size, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes, you can have a delicious one-pan meal that’s both tasty and nutritious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will be the base of your cooking and adds great flavor!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This helps build a nice flavor for your dish.
3. Add the Garlic:
Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until it gets fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; garlic can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink—this will take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish light.
5. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to flavor the beef! Stir in the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Mix well to make sure everything is combined.
6. Wilt the Spinach:
Next, add the chopped spinach in batches. Stir it constantly to help it wilt down. This will take about 3-5 minutes until it’s all beautifully tender and bright green.
7. Finish with Feta:
Once the spinach is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If you’re using lemon juice, drizzle it over the top, and then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese all around. This gives such a lovely creamy finish!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your skillet warm! It’s perfect on its own, but it’s also fantastic with crusty bread or over cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful that turkey may cook faster, so keep an eye on it!
Can I Make This Skillet Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. You can adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor of the vegetable components.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are chopped evenly and adjust the cooking time if they require longer to cook!
