This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is packed with flavor and nutrients! Juicy beef cooks up with fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese for a tasty one-pan meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main source of protein in the dish. You can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. I often mix beef with ground turkey for a lighter meal.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it well. I love using kale for a different texture and flavor too!
Feta Cheese: Feta brings creaminess and a tangy taste. If feta isn’t available, goat cheese or even ricotta can work nicely. I prefer using herb-infused feta for extra flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness to the dish. If they’re out of season, you can use any canned tomatoes or simply skip this ingredient. Sometimes I toss in some bell peppers for crunch!
How Can I Ensure My Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might feel tricky, but here are crucial tips. The goal is to brown the beef evenly without drying it out.
- Use medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps achieve a nice brown color.
- Break the beef into small pieces with a spatula for even cooking. Stir occasionally, letting it brown before stirring again.
- Cook until no pink remains, but don’t overcook, or it can become tough. About 6-8 minutes should do!
How to Make Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for color and freshness)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish comes together in about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and the cooking will take another 15-20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a delicious flavor base for your dish!
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn; you want it fragrant but not brown.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
4. Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes:
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, stir them in now and cook for about 2 minutes until they soften slightly. This adds a fresh pop of flavor to the skillet.
5. Add Spinach:
Fold in the chopped spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts down. Cook until all the spinach is tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes. It may seem like a lot at first, but spinach cooks down significantly!
6. Top with Feta:
Once the spinach is wilted, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. The feta will soften slightly from the heat of the dish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley or dill. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, healthy, and delicious skillet meal!
Grab a fork and dig in—you’ve just made a delightful dish in under 30 minutes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but be aware that turkey may cook faster than beef, so keep an eye on it!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be great additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to ensure they’re tender when added to the skillet. Sauté them with the onions for best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and replace it with plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or even a meat substitute like tofu. The cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly. Don’t skip the feta if you’re keeping it vegetarian, as it adds wonderful flavor!