This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a quick and tasty meal. With tender ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta, it’s packed with flavor and fun!
I love how it all cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, that feta? It adds a happy little zing. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (like 80/20) for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken work well, too.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but if you have frozen spinach, you can use that. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings a rich flavor. If you’re out, any neutral cooking oil can work, such as canola oil or avocado oil.
How Do I Get My Ground Beef Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef correctly is key to this dish. You want it browned but not overcooked. Follow these steps:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat before adding oil to prevent sticking.
- Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly.
- Don’t rush! Let it sit a moment before stirring for those delicious brown bits.
- Use a spatula to break it up gently without mashing it.
This method ensures flavorful beef that’s tender and juicy, perfect for your skillet!
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
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Optional: lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers, signaling it’s hot and ready.
2. Cook the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent. This adds a lot of flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until you can smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink.
5. Season It Up:
Season with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), salt, and pepper. Stir it all together to mix the flavors.
6. Add Liquid and Scrape:
Pour in the water or beef broth, stirring while scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor to the dish!
7. Cook the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring and letting it wilt down before adding more. It will cook down quickly, so it might seem like a lot at first, but it reduces significantly!
8. Mix in Feta:
Once all the spinach has wilted and cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and gently fold it in.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the beef and spinach skillet immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if you want a little zing!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful one-pan meal that’s quick, delicious, and healthy!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution that lowers the fat content while still providing a delicious meal. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as turkey can sometimes have a drier texture compared to beef.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can also add in some beans for extra protein and fiber!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can add a splash of water or broth to moisten it as needed.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This skillet dish is great on its own, but you can serve it over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the flavors. A simple salad or roasted vegetables make a fantastic accompaniment, too!
