It was one of those evenings when I opened my fridge and saw wilted spinach, a half-pound of ground beef, and a small block of feta cheese staring back at me. I needed dinner on the table in 30 minutes, and my kids were already asking what we were eating. That’s when I created this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta—a one-pan wonder that became an instant family favorite. The savory beef pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach, while the tangy feta adds a creamy, salty finish that makes every bite irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but requires minimal effort and cleanup. If you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners like this, you’ll also love my 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, which follows the same simple approach. This skillet recipe has saved countless busy evenings in my kitchen, and I know it’ll do the same for you. Let’s get started.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights
- Only one skillet needed, which means minimal cleanup and less time at the sink
- Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen
- Packed with protein and iron from the ground beef and spinach combination
- The creamy feta cheese adds a Mediterranean twist that elevates simple ingredients into something special
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best for flavor and moisture)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
Why we use ground beef: The 80/20 blend provides enough fat to keep the dish moist without being greasy. If you prefer leaner meat, use 90/10 but add an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
Best substitute for feta: Goat cheese offers a similar tangy profile, or try crumbled cotija for a Mexican-inspired variation.
Fresh vs. frozen spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and has better texture, but frozen works when you’re in a pinch—just squeeze out all the excess water first.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly.
- Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. This builds the flavor foundation.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. If the garlic smells toasty, that’s perfect.
- Add spinach in batches if using fresh, stirring until wilted, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Pour in broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and fold in crumbled feta. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese.
- Let the skillet rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet shines when served over fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The juices from the beef and spinach create a natural sauce that soaks into the grains perfectly. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside warm pita bread or crusty baguette slices to scoop up every last bit. I love making this for casual Friday dinners when we want something satisfying but don’t want to spend the evening cooking. It’s also excellent for meal prep—divide into containers with rice for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Variations and Suggestions (Make it Yours)
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version with similar protein content
- Add diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair with extra moisture
- Make it spicier by doubling the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of harissa paste
- Turn it into a low-carb meal by serving over zucchini noodles instead of rice
- Replace feta with mozzarella and add Italian seasoning for an Italian-inspired twist
- Stir in white beans or chickpeas for added fiber and to stretch the recipe further
Selena Trump’s Tips for Recipe Success
Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef—if your skillet is too small, cook the meat in two batches. Overcrowding creates steam instead of the flavorful browning we’re after. When adding fresh spinach, it might look like too much at first, but remember it wilts down to about one-fifth of its original volume, so don’t worry. A common mistake is adding the feta while the heat is still on high, which can make it rubbery—always remove from heat first and let the residual warmth do the work. If your feta is particularly salty, taste the dish before adding extra salt at the end. Finally, save some feta to sprinkle on top just before serving for a beautiful presentation that tells everyone this meal was made with care.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this an excellent meal-prep option. For reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture—the microwave works too, but the stovetop preserves the texture better. You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers, though the spinach texture may soften slightly upon thawing. To make ahead, cook the beef and onion mixture, let it cool, then refrigerate for up to 2 days before finishing with spinach and feta when you’re ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. Since turkey is leaner, I recommend adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil to prevent dryness. The cooking time remains the same, and you’ll still get that satisfying, protein-rich meal.
Do I need to thaw frozen spinach completely?
Yes, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Excess water will make your skillet watery and dilute the flavors. Fresh spinach is easier in this regard since it naturally releases less liquid.
What if I don’t have feta cheese?
You can substitute with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or try ricotta salata for a milder option. Even shredded mozzarella works if you prefer a less assertive cheese flavor, though you’ll lose that characteristic Mediterranean tang.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Yes, but use a very large skillet or divide between two pans to ensure proper browning. If everything is too crowded, the beef will steam rather than brown, affecting the final flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use dairy-free feta alternatives now available in most grocery stores. The dish will still be delicious with just the savory beef and spinach combination.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the rice and serve the skillet as-is, or pair it with cauliflower rice. The entire dish is naturally low in carbs, with the main carbs coming from the onion and spinach, making it perfect for keto meal plans.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta has earned its place in my weekly dinner rotation, and I hope it does the same in yours. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, create something truly special without demanding hours in the kitchen. I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own—do you add extra spices, swap in different greens, or serve it in a unique way? Share your experience in the comments below or tag me on social media so I can see your creations.
Happy cooking,
