This Easy Ground Beef Spinach Skillet is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With juicy ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese, it’s full of flavors!
I love how this dish is ready in no time! Just cook the beef, toss in the spinach, sprinkle with feta, and you’re set. It’s a simple way to sneak in some greens, and who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Beef is the star here, offering a hearty base. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Just remember they may need less cooking time.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is fantastic for its nutrients and vibrant color. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and a salty bite. If you’re looking for alternatives, goat cheese works well for a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try almond or cashew cheese.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder. However, fresh ingredients provide the best taste!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but there are a few tips to ensure it turns out great. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and let the olive oil shimmer before adding the onions. This helps to sear the meat rather than steam it.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If your pan is too full, the beef will steam instead of brown. If needed, cook in batches.
- Break the meat up as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Aim for even browning for the best flavor.
- Once browned, check for excess fat. If there’s too much grease, drain it before adding other ingredients.
Easy Ground Beef Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty skillet dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. So simple, right? It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the star of the dish—ground beef! Break the meat into smaller pieces and add it to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat in the pan after cooking, don’t forget to drain it to keep the dish lighter!
3. Season and Add Spinach:
After the beef is fully cooked, stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin (if you’re using it), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to combine. Then, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or just until the spinach wilts down and reduces in size.
4. Finish with Feta and Serve:
Once the spinach is ready, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. If you like, add some chopped fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor and color, and toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick! Serve warm by itself, over rice, or with some crusty bread on the side.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Ground Beef Spinach Skillet with Feta! It’s not only quick to make but also packed with flavors.
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to avoid making your dish soggy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just cook them alongside the onion at the beginning to ensure they’re tender by the time you add the spinach.
