This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a quick, tasty meal packed with flavor! The juicy beef pairs perfectly with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. Yum!
Honestly, this dish is one of my weeknight heroes. It’s so easy to whip up, and I love that it’s a one-pan wonder—less clean-up means more time to relax!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can use lean ground beef to keep it healthier. If beef isn’t your thing, ground turkey or chicken is an excellent substitute that also works well!
Spinach: Fresh spinach really makes this dish vibrant. If you’re out of fresh, frozen spinach can work too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well first.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a lovely tanginess. If you can’t find feta, crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta can add a nice creaminess. Just adjust the amount to your taste since goat cheese can be stronger in flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A bit of heat can elevate the dish! If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to skip them or use just a pinch.
How Do You Get Perfectly Sautéed Onions?
Sautéing onions properly can enhance the flavors of your dish significantly. Start by heating your olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onions and let them cook slowly. Remember, the key here is patience!
- Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Avoid high heat to prevent burning; you want the onions to sweeten up without browning too quickly.
- Add minced garlic at the end to prevent it from burning, which can make it taste bitter.
With these steps, you’ll have beautifully softened onions that serve as a great base for your skillet!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a lovely base for our flavors to build upon!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it until it’s softened and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. It’s essential to get the onions just right for that sweet flavor!
3. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s time to move on when your kitchen smells amazing!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart using your spatula and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Season it with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and if you like a little heat, add in the crushed red pepper flakes!
5. Stir in the Spinach:
Now, toss in the roughly chopped fresh spinach! Stir it around and cook until it’s wilted, which will take about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant green color makes this dish so inviting!
6. Add the Feta:
Turn off the heat and gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese. The warmth from the skillet will slightly melt the cheese, making it even tastier!
7. Lemon Juice for Brightness:
If you want to brighten up the flavors a bit, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the top. It adds a refreshing zing that balances the richness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet! Serve it warm as is or pair it with rice, quinoa, or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly if needed!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese on hand, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta can work well. For a non-dairy option, try a plant-based feta or a cream cheese substitute for a similar creamy texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Cook and assemble the skillet meal, then let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
