Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: The star of the dish! You can use lean beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option. If you’re opting for a vegetarian meal, feel free to swap in cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.

Spinach: Fresh spinach brings color and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach works too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess water.

Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creamy and tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try cottage cheese or a dairy-free feta made from nuts. For a different flavor, goat cheese can also replace feta.

Oregano: This herb is key for flavor. You could use Italian seasoning as a substitute, but fresh herbs like basil or thyme can offer a delightful twist if you have them on hand.

How Do I Cook Ground Beef Without It Getting Tough?

Cooking ground beef properly is essential for a tender bite. Here’s how to do it:

• Start with medium heat to avoid searing the meat too quickly. This ensures even cooking.
• Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, which helps it to brown evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you are making a larger batch, consider cooking in two separate pans or in batches to keep the meat from steaming.
• Once browned, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety, but aim to avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.

Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes, you can have a flavorful dish ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the Skillet:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help to create a nice base for cooking all the ingredients together.

2. Sauté the Onion:

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent and soft. This adds wonderful flavor to the dish!

3. Add Garlic:

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that delicious garlic aroma filling your kitchen!

4. Cook the Ground Beef:

Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, and continue cooking it until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick!

5. Add the Spinach:

Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it all together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and bright green.

6. Finish with Lemon Juice:

After removing the skillet from the heat, you can stir in a little lemon juice if you’d like—a dash of brightness that enhances all the flavors!

7. Top with Feta:

Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the dish for that creamy, tangy goodness.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your delicious ground beef and spinach skillet warm! It’s great on its own or paired with rice, quinoa, or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!

FAQ – Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely! If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet. This will help prevent your dish from becoming too watery.

What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time if using a leaner meat, as it may need less time to cook through.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Is There a Dairy-Free Option for Feta Cheese?

Yes! Look for dairy-free feta made from nuts, or you can use crumbled tofu mixed with a little nutritional yeast for a tasty alternative. Just adjust the seasoning to taste!