Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that feels a bit fancy but is still super easy to make, this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is just the ticket! This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I love how it comes together in just about 25 minutes. The combination of savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful medley that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can whip it up when time is tight or impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your health!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavors in this dish, plus it’s simple enough for them to help make!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the spinach.
• Versatile: Great served alone or as a filling over rice or with crusty bread.
• Make-ahead option: You can easily prep this dish ahead of time for those busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta are quite simple and wholesome. Most of them are likely already in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using goat cheese or shredded mozzarella instead of feta.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like heat!

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps to create a nice base for sautéing our vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 3–4 minutes until they soften. This brings out their natural sweetness and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it up with your spatula as you cook it for about 5–7 minutes until it’s browned through. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off. Browning the meat well adds depth to the flavor of our dish.

Step 4: Mix in Spinach and Spices

Once your beef is nicely browned, stir in the chopped spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. This step not only adds nutrients but also vibrant color!

Step 5: Finish With Feta

Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. The warm skillet will melt some of that feta slightly—pure bliss!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley over your dish before serving warm. This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice, making every bite satisfying!

Enjoy this delightful meal that brings comfort and joy to any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some pro tips to elevate your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef (like 90/10) can help reduce excess fat in the dish while still keeping it juicy and flavorful.

• Fresh spinach is best: Using fresh spinach instead of frozen not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also gives you a vibrant color and texture.

• Don’t skip the spices: Paprika and oregano add depth to the dish, so don’t hesitate to adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences for an extra flavor punch!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the skillet dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together, making each bite even more delightful.

• Experiment with cheese: While feta adds a great tangy flavor, trying alternatives like goat cheese or ricotta can offer unique twists that keep things exciting!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta beautifully can turn a simple meal into an impressive one. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch that complements the savory flavors.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the beef and feta.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really kick things up a notch!

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce—it’s perfect for mopping up deliciousness!

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet dish.

• Roasted vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring color and nutrition while complementing the main flavors beautifully.

• Brown rice or couscous: Serve over brown rice or fluffy couscous for added texture. They absorb flavors wonderfully and make the meal feel more filling.

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not just quick to prepare but also packed with nutritional goodness! Enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a fantastic option for meal prep! It stores well, allowing you to make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing, freezing, and reheating this delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove excess air from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield delicious results in this recipe.

What can I serve with my Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. You can also enjoy it as is for a low-carb meal!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes when cooking the onions or adding diced jalapeños along with the spinach.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later meals.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta as much as I do! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers, each bite is sure to bring warmth to your table. I’d love for you to try this recipe—happy cooking!