This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a tasty one-pan dish that combines juicy beef with fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese. It’s quick to make and a dinner winner!
I love how colorful this dish looks on the plate—it’s like eating a rainbow! Plus, it’s so simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for something lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutritional boost. If you don’t have fresh on hand, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy flavor. If you can’t find feta, try crumbled goat cheese or cotage cheese for a different but still creamy texture. Vegan cheese can also work for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is ideal for sautéing, you can use vegetable or canola oil instead if that’s what you have available.
How Do You Cook the Spinach Without Making It Soggy?
Cooking spinach can be tricky if you’re not careful. To keep it from becoming soggy, add it in batches. This way, the leaves have space to wilt properly without releasing too much water at once.
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic, which will enhance the flavor.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the spinach a handful at a time.
- Stir gently and allow each batch to wilt before adding more, which only takes 1-2 minutes.
This technique helps keep the spinach vibrant and ensures your dish stays fresh and lively!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach (about 5-6 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a lovely base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir it around until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You want it to be browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Season it with salt, black pepper, oregano, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Start adding the fresh spinach in batches—this keeps it from getting soggy. Stir gently and let each batch wilt before adding more. This process should take about 3-5 minutes total, and you’ll see the vibrant green color really come to life.
5. Finish and Flavor Up:
Once the spinach is fully wilted and well mixed with the beef, take your skillet off the heat. If you like, stir in the lemon juice for a burst of flavor. It adds a nice brightness to the dish!
6. Add Feta and Serve:
Now for the finishing touch! Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the dish immediately on its own, or alongside some warm crusty bread, rice, or pita for a complete meal. Dig in and enjoy your healthy, flavorful, one-skillet dinner!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as some meats cook faster than others.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! You can use frozen spinach instead. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. This will help prevent the dish from becoming watery.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas, and follow the rest of the recipe as is. You can also boost the flavors with more herbs and spices.
