Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

A Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef and fresh spinach, topped with creamy feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at a casual gathering. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Preparation takes just 10 minutes, while cooking is completed in 15, making this dish perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices, garlic, and feta adds depth and richness to every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the spinach, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to suit your preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A quality skillet is crucial for even cooking and browning the ground beef perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while allowing you to break up the beef efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise chopping of onions and garlic.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for all your chopping needs.

Ingredients

A delicious and easy-to-make skillet dish featuring ground beef, fresh spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.

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)

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Cook onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your wooden spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Spices

Stir in chopped spinach along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts down.

Step 5: Top with Feta

Remove from heat. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top of the mixture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve warm—this dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. You can elevate your meal by serving it in different ways to suit your taste and preference.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair this skillet dish with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A baguette or sourdough works wonderfully.

Over Rice

• Serving the skillet over fluffy rice makes it a filling option. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

As a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves like romaine or collard greens to create a fresh wrap. This option adds crunch and freshness, perfect for a light meal.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa is a nutritious grain that complements this dish beautifully. Serve the beef and spinach mixture over cooked quinoa for added protein.

On Top of a Salad

• Transform your skillet dish into a hearty salad by placing it on mixed greens. Add extra feta and a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

To ensure your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or spices according to your personal preferences.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Cook the spinach just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While feta adds great flavor, try other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for different tastes.
• Add More Veggies: Enhance nutrition by incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the mix.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat when ready to enjoy again.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

This delicious skillet dish pairs well with several side options that bring balance to your meal. Here are some great choices:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the flavors of the skillet.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal.
3. Couscous Salad
   Light couscous tossed with herbs, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich skillet dish.
4. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli brings crunch and health benefits, making it an excellent side choice alongside this hearty recipe.
5. Greek Yogurt Dip
   A tangy yogurt dip flavored with herbs can serve as a cool accompaniment that pairs well with the warm skillet dish.
6. Hummus with Pita Chips
   Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips adds an enjoyable snack element that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta, a few common mistakes can detract from your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Not seasoning the dish well can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the spinach: Overcooked spinach can lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep it fresh.
• Using low-quality beef: Low-quality ground beef can affect the taste and texture. Choose lean, high-quality beef for better results.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds an aromatic flavor that enhances the dish. Don’t skip it; add fresh minced garlic for maximum flavor.
• Not letting it rest: Letting your skillet dish sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or freezer bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making this delicious skillet dish.

What is the best way to store Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch out spices based on your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for busy weeknights.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, which will still provide great flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this delicious recipe a try today!