Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I love making Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. It’s a comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef, nutritious spinach, and a hint of garlic, all in one pan. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip this up any night of the week. Plus, I feel good knowing I’m serving a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins. It’s perfect for busy evenings when time is short but I still want something hearty.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:17:36.162Z

One evening, I found myself staring at a pound of ground beef and a bag of fresh spinach. I wanted to make something filling but healthy, so I combined the two in a skillet. The result was more than just a meal; it was a delightful blend of flavors with a hint of spices that made my taste buds dance. I learned that sautéing the garlic first before adding the beef really enhances the dish with an aromatic depth that’s hard to resist.

As I plated the dish, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Not only did I make a quick dinner, but I also managed to sneak in some greens! The beauty of this skillet is its versatility; you can toss in any leftover veggies you have on hand, making it an ideal option for cleaning out the fridge while still enjoying a fantastic meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach
Savory flavors that make every bite satisfying

Mastering the Technique

A key to making this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet a success is mastering the sautéing technique. Begin by heating olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, which indicates the right temperature. When you add the onions and garlic, look for the onions to become translucent and slightly soft—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Perfecting this step adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall dish.

When browning the ground beef, ensure it is broken apart evenly with your spatula. If you notice too much moisture in the pan, it can result in steaming rather than browning. Aim for a rich, browned color on the meat, which typically takes around 5-7 minutes. If your beef is not browning well, raise the heat slightly or consider using a larger skillet to allow more surface area to brown.

Ingredient Roles and Tips

The spinach is not just a nutritious addition; it also adds vibrant color and a slight earthiness to the dish. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so it’s important to stir it in towards the end of your cooking process. You’ll know it’s done when it reduces in volume significantly and takes on a glossy appearance, usually within 3-5 minutes. If you intend to substitute frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from watering down your skillet.

Seasoning throughout the layers of cooking is crucial to building flavor in this dish. Besides salt and pepper, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika during the browning of the ground beef for a kick of heat and smoky depth. Taste the mixture as you go; if you find it lacking, a splash of Worcestershire sauce towards the end can elevate the umami notes wonderfully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Add any additional spices or vegetables you like!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the spinach has wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot with your choice of side!

Pro Tips

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet makes for excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the mixture looks too dry, a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture without compromising flavor.

If you’re looking to prep ahead, you can cook the ground beef and onions a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just before serving, reheat and add the garlic and spinach to finish cooking. This step can significantly reduce the time needed on busy nights while still allowing you to enjoy a nourishing meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Consider serving this skillet dish with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad to create a more balanced meal. You can also top it with a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess, or a dollop of sour cream for a cooling counterbalance. If you're ready to experiment, try incorporating other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, which can be sautéed with the onions for added flavor and texture.

For a vegetarian variation, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly; lentils typically require more liquid and longer simmering to achieve the desired tenderness and flavor infusion. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, plant-forward meal without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just thaw and drain it before adding.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs nicely with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the dish.