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Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet

Ground Beef and Spinin Skillet

DishCharm
A high-protein, nutrient-packed one-pan meal combining savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Nonstick skillet For easy cooking and cleanup.
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring and breaking up ground beef.
  • Optional Colander If draining excess fat from ground beef.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Lean ground beef (90/10) Grass-fed beef adds depth; turkey or chicken can be substituted.
  • 6 cups Fresh spinach Baby spinach preferred for quick cooking; frozen spinach can be used.
  • ½ cup Crumbled feta cheese Adds creaminess and tang; optional but recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing; helps prevent sticking.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • ½ medium Onion Finely diced for texture.
  • ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
  • ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste after cooking.

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup Diced tomatoes Adds juiciness and acidity.
  • 1/4 cup Sliced olives For a Mediterranean twist.
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano Enhances herbaceous notes.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Brown the Ground Beef:

    • Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a brown crust. Stir occasionally until fully cooked through and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

    Sauté Aromatics:

    • Add diced onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Incorporate Spinach:

    • Add fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring gently until wilted. This should take 2–3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients and vibrant color.

    Season and Add Cheese:

    • Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and any optional spices like dried oregano. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until melted and combined.

    Serve:

    • Divide the skillet mixture into bowls. Garnish with additional feta or herbs if desired. Serve warm as a standalone meal or over rice/quinoa for extra volume.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
      • Freezing: Freeze the cooked mixture in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
      • Substitutions: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach; swap feta for ricotta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
      • Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. Reduce cooking time since it’s already soft.
       
    2. What type of ground beef is best?
      • Lean ground beef (90/10) works well to reduce grease while maintaining flavor. Grass-fed beef offers richer flavor and healthier fats.
       
    3. How do I keep the spinach from getting soggy?
      • Add spinach near the end of cooking and stir gently. Avoid overcooking to retain its vibrant color and texture.
       
    4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
      • Substitute ground beef with plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu.
       
    5. What sides pair well with this skillet?
      • Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to complement the flavors.
       
    6. How can I reduce sodium?
      • Use low-sodium ingredients and season gradually with salt at the end of cooking.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes for brightness or heat.
    • Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for color and freshness.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftovers into a stuffed bell pepper filling by reheating with additional spices.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle crumbled feta, chopped herbs, or a dash of paprika over the skillet for added flair.
    • Serving Style: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look or plate individually for a polished presentation.
    • Pairings: Include a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
    Keyword Ground Beef and Spinach Skille, High-Protein Dinner, Quick Healthy Meal