Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the nutritious goodness of spinach and the tangy flavor of feta cheese. This one-pan meal is not only simple to make, but it also packs a punch in terms of flavor and nutrition.
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make this recipe means diving into a world of bold flavors and healthy ingredients. Ground beef provides a hearty protein source, while spinach boosts your meal with essential vitamins and minerals. Feta cheese adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that ties the dish together. This skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend brunch, making it a versatile recipe to add to your culinary repertoire. Plus, it comes together quickly, minimizing the time you spend in the kitchen while maximizing the delight at your dining table.
How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Creating this flavorful Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is an easy process that doesn’t require a lot of time or complicated techniques. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide on how to prepare this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts and is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success with Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
- Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opting for lean ground beef can help reduce excess fat in your meal, making it a healthier choice.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach and herbs will ensure the best flavor and nutritional value in your dish.
- Mind the Heat: When cooking the garlic and onions, be cautious not to burn them. Keep an eye on the pan and stir frequently.
- Customize Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: This will minimize sticking and make cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations for Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor and added moisture.
- Include Other Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
- Try Different Cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, substitute with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking to spice things up.
- Herb Mix: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to give your dish a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta can stand alone as a filling meal, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- With Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.
- As a Wrap: Spoon the mixture into pita bread or tortillas for a hearty wrap.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a light salad for a well-rounded meal that adds freshness and crunch.
- Over Pasta: Toss it with pasta for a complete and satisfying dish.
- Top with an Egg: For breakfast lovers, add a fried or poached egg on top for extra nutrition.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
To store leftovers, let the skillet meal cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Always check for doneness and safety before consuming.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————–|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still deliver a delicious end result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey can cook more quickly than beef.
What if I can’t find fresh spinach?
If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet. Frozen spinach tends to have a more concentrated flavor and texture, so adjust the quantity accordingly—about 1 cup of cooked frozen spinach should suffice.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is ideal for meal prep. Prepare it in bulk and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated with ease.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein like lentils or mushrooms. You can also use tofu or tempeh seasoned to mimic the flavors you enjoy in the original recipe. The feta can be substituted with a plant-based cheese or left out altogether.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by omitting the feta cheese or using a dairy-free cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast is a great addition for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe as written is not particularly spicy. However, you can adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding ingredients like chili powder, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to heat things up.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is a fantastic dish that brings together simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. It’s perfect for anyone looking to create a quick meal that’s still filled with taste and health benefits. Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a joyful weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s versatile enough to allow for personal touches, ensuring that every family can make it their own. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this exquisite skillet recipe!
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Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful one-pan meal combining rich ground beef, nutritious spinach, and tangy feta cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts and is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor, and you can experiment with various spices and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
