Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that brings the family together, you’ve found it! This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty yet simple. It’s packed with flavor from the sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh spinach, all topped with creamy feta cheese. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or those cozy family gatherings.

What makes this dish truly special is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a comforting dinner or even enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s a meal that not only nourishes but also warms the heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Packed with nutrition: The combination of ground beef and fresh spinach provides protein and essential vitamins.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the flavors in this savory skillet dish.
• Make-ahead option: This recipe can be easily doubled for meal prep or frozen for later.
• Deliciously satisfying: The crumbled feta adds a creamy tang that elevates the entire dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are easy to find and come together beautifully in this delicious skillet dish.

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

For Topping

• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few fun variations to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for feta to keep it plant-based while adding a cheesy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some 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 your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps to create a nice base for your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re soft. Cooking these aromatics first brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to your dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Break it up with your spatula as it cooks. You want to cook it for about 5–7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess fat, don’t forget to drain it! This keeps your meal light.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Seasonings

Now it’s time to stir in your chopped spinach along with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. The vibrant green color is not only appealing but also packed with nutrients!

Step 5: Top with Feta

Remove your skillet from heat and generously sprinkle crumbled feta over the top. The warmth from the dish will slightly melt the cheese, making it irresistibly creamy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over everything before serving warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice—whatever makes your heart happy! Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to make your dish even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality ground beef will enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of your skillet dish. Fresh ingredients provide more vibrant flavors and textures.

• Don’t rush the browning process: Allow the ground beef to brown properly. This step not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a delicious crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference. Tasting as you go ensures your meal is perfectly tailored to you and your family.

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe calls for oregano and paprika, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs! A pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cumin can add a unique twist.

• Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Preparing it in advance can save you time on busy weeknights, and it tastes great reheated!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving this hearty skillet dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its Mediterranean flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and balances the richness of the feta and beef.
• Extra feta crumbles: Scatter additional feta on top before serving for an extra creamy bite.
• Chopped olives: Add some chopped olives for added brininess that pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up this flavorful skillet dish. It adds texture while soaking up all those delicious juices.

• Quinoa: This nutty grain is a fantastic alternative to rice. It’s protein-packed and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a healthy accompaniment.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients while complementing the savory notes of the skillet.

• Greek salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a light dressing is a great side that adds crunch and freshness next to the warm skillet meal.

Enjoy creating this delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta! It’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the cooked dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this scrumptious recipe!

Can I substitute ground beef in the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. Both will work beautifully in this skillet dish.

How can I make the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. The flavors will still be fantastic!

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! If you prefer frozen spinach, just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

How do I store leftover Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that come together quickly, making it a go-to weeknight meal. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or simply want something hearty yet healthy, this recipe has you covered. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to share your experience!