Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that comes together in no time, the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is just the recipe for you! This dish is a cherished favorite in my kitchen, thanks to its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this skillet meal ticks all the boxes. The combination of savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta creates a delightful taste that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe shines when you want something comforting yet nutritious. Plus, it makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish takes just 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those busy evenings!
• Family-friendly: Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat for an easy meal during the week.
• Flavorful and satisfying: With spices like paprika and oregano, every bite is bursting with Mediterranean goodness.
• Versatile side options: Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that suits any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is super simple. These wholesome items not only come together easily but also offer plenty of nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skillet Dish

• 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative to suit dietary needs.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your meals!

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial because it helps create a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes until they soften. Sautéing brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, add in your ground beef. Break it up as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Don’t forget to drain excess fat if needed; we want all that delicious flavor without too much grease!

Step 4: Add Spinach and Seasonings

Stir in chopped spinach along with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down nicely. This step not only enhances flavor but also gives your dish that beautiful pop of green.

Step 5: Top with Feta

Once everything is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta on top. The feta will melt slightly from the residual heat, adding creaminess to every bite.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Lastly, sprinkle fresh parsley over your dish before serving warm. It’s fantastic with crusty bread or served over rice—perfect for soaking up all those wonderful flavors! Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

This delicious dish is not only easy to prepare, but a few simple tips can elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture, enhancing the overall experience of your meal.

• Don’t overcook the beef: Cooking the ground beef just until browned keeps it juicy and tender. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on it!

• Customize your spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices, such as basil or red pepper flakes, to suit your taste preferences and bring new dimensions to the dish.

• Let it rest: Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving this skillet dish can be as fun as preparing it! Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting friends, here are some delightful presentation ideas.

Garnishes

• Chopped olives: A sprinkle of chopped olives adds a briny flavor that complements the feta perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add a splash of citrus that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, providing crushed red pepper flakes lets guests spice things up according to their preference.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of this delicious skillet dish. It adds texture and makes for a satisfying meal.

• Couscous salad: A light couscous salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil pairs beautifully with this savory dish while adding freshness.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots complement the skillet’s robust flavors and create a colorful plate.

• Quinoa pilaf: This nutty grain is an excellent source of protein and makes for a hearty side that balances out the richness of the beef and feta.

Enjoy your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it correctly, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the skillet dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a covered dish for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

How can I add more vegetables to my Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms! Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just ensure any additional sides are also gluten-free if needed.

Can I substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Definitely! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could try goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed. Just remember to crumble it similarly before adding!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or part of your meal prep routine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!