This easy ground beef and spinach skillet is a one-pan wonder! It’s packed with juicy beef, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese for a tasty meal in no time.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up—perfect for busy nights! Plus, who can resist that creamy feta? It’s like a cheesy hug for your taste buds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, giving it a hearty feel. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely green element and a ton of nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Kale is another great substitute if you want something a bit heartier.
Feta Cheese: The tangy flavor of feta brings everything together. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you might try reduced-fat feta or even goat cheese for a slightly different taste. For a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon juice.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics create a flavor base. If you’re short on time, you can use onion or garlic powder, but fresh is always best for that robust flavor. Shallots are also a nice alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef is straightforward, but to get it just right, follow these tips:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. You want a nice brown color without it charring.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown evenly and ensures there aren’t large chunks.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re cooking a larger batch, do it in batches to get that nice sear.
These steps will help you achieve flavorful, juicy beef for your skillet dish!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup (150g) crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth (optional, for wilting spinach)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal can be prepared in about 10 minutes and cooked in another 10-15 minutes, making it a quick option that takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will get the pan nice and hot for the aromatic ingredients.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This will add a wonderful flavor base for your dish.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it releases its lovely aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can get bitter!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart while it cooks. Continue cooking for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
5. Add Spinach:
Once the beef is fully cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet. If your skillet seems a bit dry, feel free to splash in a bit of water or beef broth to help wilt the spinach. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is bright green and tender.
6. Add Feta:
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the mixture. Gently stir to combine everything, allowing the feta to warm up but not completely melt.
7. Taste and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful skillet meal, which pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even some crusty bread!
Enjoy your simple, flavorful, and nutritious skillet meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
You can definitely swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat used.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding the spinach to keep the dish balanced in texture.
