This easy ground beef and spinach skillet is a quick meal packed with flavor! The beef is perfectly seasoned, while the spinach adds a fresh touch, and the feta cheese gives it a creamy finish.
I love how this dish can be made in one pan! It saves me time on clean-up, and it’s always a hit at the dinner table. Plus, the cheese makes everything better, right? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes. They will give you a light flavor without sacrificing the texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for flavor. However, you could use vegetable or canola oil if you need something neutral. It will still work fine.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brightens up the dish, but you can use frozen spinach if it’s what you have. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you could try goat cheese or even ricotta. Each will bring a unique taste to the dish!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef to Perfection?
Cooking ground beef might seem straightforward, but there are tips to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful. Here are some important steps:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps to brown the meat and adds flavor.
- Break the beef apart with a spatula, letting it cook evenly. Avoid constant stirring — let it sit for a bit to get that nice sear.
- Season the meat as it cooks. This allows the spices to infuse throughout, enhancing the flavor.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it after browning. This keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can taste bitter.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon. It should take about 6-8 minutes to brown and cook through. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it.
4. Season It Up:
Stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the beef is nicely seasoned.
5. Add Spinach:
Toss the roughly chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the spinach is wilted and tender.
6. Finish with Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. This adds a creamy and tangy finish to the dish!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish your skillet with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve warm, and enjoy it with pita bread, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal!
Enjoy your quick and flavorful ground beef and spinach skillet with a creamy feta finish!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you can enjoy a lighter version of this dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use cooked lentils for added protein. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier texture. Alternatively, try using grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor in vegan dishes!
