Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the family together, you’ve come to the right place! My Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s packed with flavors and can be made in just 25 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or even cozy family gatherings. Plus, who can resist the combination of savory ground beef, vibrant spinach, and creamy feta?

This dish not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. You’ll feel like a superstar chef as you whip up this wholesome meal. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, this dish comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and reheat it for an easy lunch or dinner.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Fresh spinach adds vitamins while lean ground beef provides protein, making it a balanced meal.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or with crusty bread—there are so many ways to serve it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is simple and enjoyable! These wholesome items are usually found in your pantry or local grocery store. Let’s take a look at 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, try crumbled goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you enjoy spicy dishes.

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 create a nice base for cooking our ingredients without sticking.

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 become soft and fragrant. Sautéing these two ingredients brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next up, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spatula as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off. This step ensures that we have flavorful meat without being greasy.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Seasonings

Now stir in the chopped spinach along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. This part is so important because it allows all those delightful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Top with Feta

Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. The warmth from the dish will slightly melt the feta, giving us that creamy texture we love.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finish off by sprinkling some fresh parsley on top before serving warm. This dish goes wonderfully with crusty bread or served over rice—perfect for soaking up all those tasty juices! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Cooking can be a delightful journey, so here are some tips to ensure your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spinach: Opting for fresh spinach instead of frozen enhances the flavor and texture of the dish, giving it a vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
• Season well: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors, making each bite deliciously memorable.
• Cook in batches if necessary: If you’re making a larger portion, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and browning, which adds depth to the flavors.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices like cumin or chili flakes for an extra kick. Personalizing the spice profile can make this dish uniquely yours!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste experience.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving this hearty skillet dish is just as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present your culinary creation beautifully.

Garnishes

• Crumbled feta: A sprinkle of additional feta on top not only looks appealing but also enhances that creamy tanginess we all love.
• Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over the dish for a zesty brightness that complements the flavors.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering chili flakes on the table invites everyone to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any delicious juices left on your plate; it adds a comforting element to your meal.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing pairs well and adds a refreshing touch alongside this rich skillet dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Simple roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide a colorful contrast and bring additional nutrients to your meal without overpowering the main dish.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a lovely base for scooping up the ground beef and spinach mixture, making every bite satisfying.

Now you’re all set to create an incredible dining experience with your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta! Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals throughout the week with ease!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the skillet dish is fully cooled before freezing.
• Place portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of cheese in the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, feel free to substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste slightly.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or even alongside a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many sides!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is excellent for meal prep. You can easily store leftovers and reheat them throughout the week.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it lighter, consider using lean ground beef or substituting half of it with ground turkey or chicken. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta as much as I do! It’s not just a simple recipe; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings together flavors that sing beautifully. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner or packing it for lunch, I encourage you to savor every bite. Happy cooking!