Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta. This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to whip up but also brings a delicious Mediterranean twist to dinner. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this skillet recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare while still feeling special. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly delightful that warms the heart and nourishes the body. Plus, the combination of savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this meal on the table in just 25 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients in advance for an even faster dinner solution.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and feta adds a delightful Mediterranean flair that elevates your meal.
• Versatile Options: Customize it with your favorite veggies or grains for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You probably have many of them in your pantry already! 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 Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun ideas:

• 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 added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Serve over grains: Try it on top of quinoa or couscous for a hearty base.

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 as it helps create a nice base for sautéing our vegetables and meat.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they soften. Sautéing these aromatics enhances their flavors, making your dish even more fragrant!

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes until browned. If there’s excess fat after cooking, be sure to drain it off—keeping it lean helps balance out this dish.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach & Seasonings

Now it’s time to add our fresh spinach along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down. This step not only adds vibrant color but also infuses all those lovely flavors into the meat.

Step 5: Top with Feta

Remove from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of your skillet mixture. The warmth from the dish will slightly melt the feta, creating a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your creation before serving warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served over rice—making every bite truly enjoyable!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips, so let’s make your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta even better!

• Use fresh spinach: Freshly chopped spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color and nutrients to your dish. It wilts perfectly when cooked, integrating seamlessly into the skillet.

• Brown the beef properly: Take the time to brown the ground beef well. This caramelization adds depth of flavor to your dish, making each bite more delicious.

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning elevates all the ingredients, ensuring that each component of the skillet shines through.

• Customize your spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin or crushed red pepper flakes. This allows you to tailor the dish to your personal taste, making it uniquely yours.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together nicely, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Serving this delightful skillet dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary items that enhance its flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the rich flavors of beef and feta, adding a refreshing zing that balances the dish.
• Chopped olives: Adding Kalamata or green olives as a garnish brings an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor that pairs beautifully with feta cheese.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a crunchy texture and spicy kick, providing contrast to the softness of cooked spinach and beef.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa makes a nutritious base that absorbs the savory juices from the skillet while adding additional protein and fiber.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized makes for a colorful side that complements the dish’s heartiness.
• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of goodness from your skillet, enhancing both flavor and enjoyment.
• Simple salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm skillet dish.

Now that you have some pro tips and serving ideas at your fingertips, you’re ready to enjoy an amazing meal that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and have it ready to go for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella if you prefer.

How do I ensure my Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta isn’t too greasy?

To avoid excess grease, make sure to drain any fat after browning the ground beef. You can also choose leaner cuts of beef for a lighter meal.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables to this skillet recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta as much as I do! This dish is not only simple but packed with flavors that will warm your heart. It’s great for busy nights when you want something wholesome and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!