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; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Dishes

I absolutely love whipping up this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet on busy weeknights. It’s not just quick and easy, but it also delivers a deliciously comforting meal that satisfies the whole family. The combination of seasoned ground beef, nutritious spinach, and melty cheese blends together beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup! What could be better?

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:53:35.409Z

When I first came across this recipe, I was a bit skeptical about how such simple ingredients could create something so tasty. After a few tries, I realized the secret lies in seasoning the beef well and layering the spinach in last, allowing it to wilt just right without losing its vibrant color or nutrients.

Not only is this dish visually appealing with its pop of green, but it’s also so satisfying! The mixture of flavors and textures ensures that it’s never bland—every bite is packed with nutrients and flavor. Trust me, this becomes an instant favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory beef combined with fresh spinach for a nutritious boost
One-pan meal means less fuss and easy cleanup
Customizable with your favorite spices or additional veggies
Comfort food that is both hearty and healthy

Cooking Techniques

One of the keys to a successful Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is mastering the browning of the beef. Start with a good quality skillet and ensure your oil is hot before adding the beef. This step is crucial for achieving a rich flavor; look for the beef to turn golden-brown, which indicates it’s well-cooked. If you notice the meat releasing too much moisture, raise the heat slightly to encourage better browning.

When adding garlic and onions early in the process, take care not to overcook them. They should become fragrant and translucent. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent bitterness. Sautéing them just until they are soft enhances the overall depth of flavor, and this step also contributes to a nice base that complements the ground beef.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right cheese can significantly affect the final texture and flavor of the dish. While I recommend cheddar or mozzarella for their melting qualities, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a cheese blend for added complexity. Just sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top for an even melt, and cover the skillet to trap the heat, which promotes a nice, gooey texture.

Fresh spinach wilts down significantly as it cooks, so don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first. This leafy green is packed with nutrients and adds a vibrant color to the dish. If you're looking to add even more nutritional value, consider incorporating other greens like kale or Swiss chard, which can provide different flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they start to soften. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Season and Add Spinach

Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, fold in the fresh spinach. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.

Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the beef and spinach mixture, cover, and let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve warm, and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or your favorite herbs towards the end of cooking.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help revive moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the Beef and Spinach Skillet. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly on the stove to maintain the flavors and textures.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is hearty enough on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it over a bed of whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice. These add a nutty flavor and additional fiber, making it a more balanced meal for busy weeknights.

For a fun twist, consider transforming this dish into a stuffed bell pepper filling. After preparing the skillet, allow the mixture to cool slightly, then spoon it into halved bell peppers. Bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes at 375°F, or until the peppers are tender, for a delicious and visually appealing presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This skillet is great on its own, but you could also serve it over rice or with crusty bread.

→ How long does leftover skillet keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any veggies you love.