This easy ground beef and spinach skillet is a tasty one-pan meal that’s quick to whip up. Juicy beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta bring it all together for a delicious dinner!
Plus, it’s super simple to make! I love how the flavors mix and how it’s done in just one skillet—less mess means more time to relax. Perfect for a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish from being too greasy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, which work great in this recipe too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best here since it wilts nicely and adds a vibrant color. If you have frozen spinach on hand, that’s an okay substitute; just make sure to squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: The feta adds a creamy and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can try goat cheese, which has a similar texture and adds a different taste. For dairy-free options, look for plant-based feta.
Onion and Garlic: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can be a nice swap. Plus, feel free to adjust the garlic to your preference; I often add an extra clove for more flavor!
How Can I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef thoroughly is key for both texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil; this helps to brown the meat nicely.
- As you add the ground beef, break it up into small pieces with a spatula. Aim for even cooking and avoid big chunks.
- Keep an eye on the color! Once the beef turns from pink to brown, it’s likely fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; it should reach 160°F (70°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have a lot of beef, consider cooking it in batches for better browning.
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. A quick and satisfying dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to warm up, which will help in sautéing the vegetables evenly and keep the beef from sticking.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become translucent and tender, releasing its delicious sweetness into the oil.
3. Add the Garlic:
Once the onion is softened, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. It should smell amazing!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Season it with salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if you like.
5. Wilt the Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s wilted. Spinach reduces a lot in volume, so don’t worry if it looks like too much at first!
6. Add the Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese all over the top of your mixture. Let it sit for a moment to warm through from the residual heat.
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a nice finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skillet before serving. This dish is great on its own or served with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful 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 alternative that will work perfectly in this recipe. It will still be delicious and a bit lighter. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as ground turkey may cook a little faster.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute like tempeh or packaged veggie crumbles. Just add some extra seasoning to make sure it’s flavorful!
What Kind of Spinach Should I Use? Fresh or Frozen?
Fresh spinach is recommended for its vibrant flavor and texture, but frozen spinach can be used as well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the dish!
