Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick meal that packs a punch of flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta! This dish is one of my go-to favorites when I want something comforting yet light. The combination of ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful harmony that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this skillet dish shines in its versatility. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic nights.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful presentation, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and lean ground beef, this dish nourishes your body while satisfying your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crusty bread or over rice — there’s no wrong way to serve it!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta, you’ll need simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based version to keep it dairy-free.

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial because it ensures that everything cooks evenly and adds flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they become soft. This process brings out their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef! Break it up as you cook it for 5–7 minutes until browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if needed; we want all that delicious flavor without being too greasy!

Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Seasonings

Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in your chopped spinach along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. It’s amazing how quickly this transforms into a beautiful dish!

Step 5: Top with Feta

Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta on top. The warmth from the dish will slightly melt the feta, creating a creamy texture that complements all those savory flavors.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is fantastic warm on its own or paired with crusty bread or rice. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not just easy to make—it’s also deliciously versatile! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and retains its vibrant color. Avoid frozen spinach as it can become watery and impact the texture of your dish.

• Season generously: Don’t be shy with your spices! The combination of oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors of the beef and complements the feta beautifully.

• Drain excess fat if necessary: Depending on the leanness of your ground beef, you may want to drain some fat after browning it. This helps keep the dish from becoming overly greasy.

• Customize your cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, feel free to try other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor twist while still enjoying that creamy texture.

• Add more veggies: Want to sneak in more nutrients? Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms along with the spinach for extra flavor and health benefits!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving this dish can be as simple or as elegant as you’d like. Here are some great ideas to help you present your skillet meal in style!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a delightful acidity that balances the richness of the beef and feta.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread for dipping—perfect for soaking up every bit of flavor from the skillet!
• Rice or quinoa: A fluffy bed of rice or quinoa makes an excellent base for this hearty dish, adding a satisfying texture.
• Roasted vegetables: Pairing your skillet meal with roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots creates a colorful plate full of nutrients.
• Simple salad: A light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory skillet dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends at your next meal! Enjoy every scrumptious bite of this delightful Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a fantastic meal prep option! It’s not only easy to make, but it also stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool the skillet dish to room temperature before sealing it for storage.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the skillet contents into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for those busy nights!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5–7 minutes.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as it may cook faster than beef.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, consider using crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How do I make the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta spicier?

For some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I add other vegetables to this skillet dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would make excellent additions. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and tastes great reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta! It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it not only a quick dinner solution but also a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to come back for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!