This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet packs a punch with juicy beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese! It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use any ground meat you like—turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb works great. If you opt for leaner meat, just add a little more olive oil to keep it moist.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, bringing a lovely color and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used—just thaw and squeeze out the water before adding it to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that wonderful tang! If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Dairy-free options like cashew feta also work well for a plant-based twist.
Onion & Garlic: These add essential flavors, but you can use shallots for a sweeter taste. If you need a quicker alternative, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best.
How Do I Get All the Flavors to Work Together?
Getting the flavors just right in this dish mostly relies on the order of cooking and seasoning. Start by cooking the onions until they’re soft to release their sweetness, which adds depth to the beef.
- After the onions are soft, add garlic for a burst of flavor, but don’t overcook it to avoid bitterness.
- Season the beef while it cooks, so it absorbs all those lovely spices. The oregano and red pepper flakes give it a great kick!
- Finally, adding the spinach at the end allows it to wilt without losing its vibrant color and nutrients.
Mix in the feta gently at the end so it softens slightly but maintains some texture. Enjoy your meal with a side of grains or bread to soak up the delicious juices!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (about 4 oz/115g) crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Quick and Easy Skillet Recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. You’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and slightly translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to ensure it becomes fragrant without burning.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Make sure it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Season it with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Once the beef is cooked, add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it in well and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the spinach has wilted down, turning bright and vibrant in color.
5. Add the Feta Cheese:
After the spinach has wilted, take the skillet off the heat. Crumble the feta cheese over the top and gently stir it in. This will allow the cheese to soften but not fully melt, creating a lovely creamy layer over the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your skillet with fresh parsley if you like. Serve the dish warm, and enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, healthy, and easy skillet meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be aware that it may require a bit more seasoning to match the robust flavor of beef, so adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to your taste.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can always add them in gradually to your individual servings if you like some heat, or use a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without the spice!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! You can cook everything, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Should I Serve with This Skillet?
This skillet pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over cooked rice, quinoa, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A simple green salad on the side would also complement the meal nicely!
