Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet

This hearty and flavorful ground beef and spinach skillet is a quick, nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights.

The tender ground beef blends beautifully with fresh spinach and aromatic spices, topped off with salty crumbled feta for a delightful finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome and simple — just a few fresh ingredients create a satisfying meal.

Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.

Balanced flavors — savory beef, earthy spinach, and tangy feta.

Versatile — perfect on its own or served with crusty bread.

Nutritious — packed with protein and greens.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef — juicy and flavorful base.

Fresh spinach — adds color, nutrients, and a tender texture.

Feta cheese — salty, creamy crumble that melts slightly.

Aromatics — onion and garlic for depth.

Dried oregano & paprika — classic Mediterranean spices.

Olive oil — to sauté ingredients gently.

Fresh parsley — bright herbaceous garnish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use fresh spinach, but baby spinach also works well.

Drain excess fat after browning beef to avoid greasiness.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper gradually, feta adds saltiness.

Add a splash of lemon juice before serving for extra brightness (optional).

Serve with toasted pita, crusty bread, or over rice for a full meal.

How to Make Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic.

Cook 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Seasonings

Stir in chopped spinach, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook another 3–4 minutes until spinach wilts and flavors meld.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese

Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the mixture.

Let it gently melt into the warm skillet.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh chopped parsley.

Serve warm as is, or alongside crusty bread.

What to Serve It With

Warm, crusty bread or toasted pita.

Fluffy cooked rice or quinoa.

Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Tzatziki or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or lamb.

Add chopped tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair.

Use fresh herbs like dill or mint instead of parsley.

For spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Freeze cooked mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach.

Just make sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery dish.

Is feta cheese necessary for this recipe?

Feta adds a salty, creamy flavor that complements the beef and spinach perfectly, but you can omit it or substitute with goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella if you prefer.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This skillet meal reheats well and can be made a day in advance.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply skip the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free without losing much flavor.

What can I serve with this skillet for a complete meal?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, quinoa, or a light green salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to boost flavor and nutrition.

How do I adjust the seasoning if I want it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeños while cooking to give it a nice kick.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef and spinach skillet with feta is a straightforward, flavorful dish that combines the best of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

It’s nutritious, filling, and versatile enough for any weeknight dinner.

With minimal prep and maximal taste, it’s bound to become a household favorite.