This tasty skillet dish mixes ground beef, fresh spinach, and crumbly feta cheese for a meal full of flavor. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Plus, the best part? It all cooks in one pan—less cleanup! I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up every last bit. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This dish shines with good-quality ground beef. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use ground turkey or chicken. These substitutes keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for this recipe as it wilts beautifully. If you’re out of fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too—just be sure to thaw and drain it well first!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you can’t find feta, try using goat cheese for a similar flavor or even ricotta for a creamier texture.
Onion and Garlic: Onions provide sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re in a rush, you can substitute with shallots, or if you’re avoiding them entirely, just skip them!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef well is crucial for a tasty dish. Here’s how you can achieve just that:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps to sear the meat, locking in flavor.
- Break the meat apart as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and prevents clumps.
- Cook until all the pink is gone and it’s browned nicely. This takes about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush this part; browning adds a lot of flavor!
- Season during the cooking process. It helps the flavors to absorb into the meat.
These steps will help ensure your beef is juicy and full of flavor, making this skillet dish all the more delicious!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for color and freshness)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This releases all those wonderful aromas!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula. You’ll want to brown it thoroughly and cook it until there’s no pink left—this should take 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, along with red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
4. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:
Once the beef is cooked, toss in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down nicely.
5. Finish with Feta:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. It will melt slightly from the heat, adding a creamy finish to your dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it out while it’s warm! You can enjoy this flavorful beef and spinach skillet on its own or serve with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
Enjoy the rich, savory flavors paired with a bright, creamy feta finish! You’re going to love this easy and delicious dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that will still give you a tasty dish. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so watch your cooking time to avoid drying them out!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and vegetable mix ahead of time! Simply cook it through, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and add the feta before serving for a fresh taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly based on how long those vegetables need to soften.
