This colorful skillet dish packs ground beef and fresh spinach with delicious feta cheese. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights!
You know, it’s so simple to whip up and tastes amazing. I love that it’s a one-pan meal, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, feta adds a nice little zing—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Both will work well but may create a slightly different flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for this recipe, but if you can’t find it, frozen spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding it to the skillet.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor. You can use goat cheese as an alternative if you prefer something creamier. Just crumble it on top just like feta for that creamy goodness.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients are essential for building flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as a quick substitute—just reduce the amounts since they are more potent.
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Cooked Properly?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but achieving the right texture and flavor is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to allow even cooking without burning the garlic or onions.
- Break up the meat into small pieces with a spoon, ensuring it cooks evenly.
- Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for safety—aim for 160°F (71°C).
- Season halfway through the cooking to allow flavors to absorb into the meat.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked beef that enhances the dish. Enjoy making your skillet meal!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach (about 5 ounces)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This skillet dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal option that can be ready in just 25 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring until softened and slightly translucent. This adds a sweet flavor base for our dish.
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pan. Stir it in and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the garlic aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt, pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat) while it cooks!
4. Incorporating Spinach:
Next, push the beef and onion mixture to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the other side and introduce the fresh spinach into the pan. Cook the spinach, stirring occasionally, until it’s wilted. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Once it’s tender, mix everything together so that the flavors meld.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the mixture. If you’d like, add chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.
6. Serving:
Serve this delicious skillet meal warm, right from the pan! It’s great on its own or can be paired with rice or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Enjoy your nutritious, flavorful one-pan 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 substitute for ground beef. It’s leaner and still works well in this recipe. Just cook it until it’s no longer pink, as you would with the beef.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. This will prevent the dish from becoming watery.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender but not overcooked!
