Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl

Name: Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional)

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I love making the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl for its bold flavors and ease of preparation. This dish is my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't skimp on nutrition. The combination of savory beef, vibrant spinach, and aromatic spices comes together beautifully in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, I can easily customize it with different veggies or spices based on my mood. It’s satisfying and delicious, and I know it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:29:35.653Z

When I first decided to make the Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl, I wasn't sure how well the ingredients would mesh. To my pleasant surprise, the robust flavor of the beef combined beautifully with the fresh spinach, creating a hearty yet light meal. I recommend using high-quality ground beef, as it really enriches the dish.

I also discovered that sautéing the spinach before adding other ingredients helps to release its natural sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of the beef. Don’t hesitate to experiment with extra spices or add-ons like cheese; they elevate the dish even further!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A savory blend of beef and spinach that’s both hearty and healthy.
Quick and easy cooking process makes it perfect for busy nights.
Adaptable with various spices and vegetables for endless variations.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to achieving a delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl lies in the cooking technique. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. This helps to quickly sear the beef, locking in its juices. When you add the ground beef, break it up with a spatula, browning it evenly for about 5-7 minutes. Look for a nice golden color, which indicates it's cooked through and adds depth to the dish's flavor.

As you sauté the onions, cook them just until they turn translucent, approximately 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it develops the base flavor of your dish. If you cook them too long, they can become bitter, altering the final taste. Remember to maintain medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and onions — they should never brown significantly before the tomatoes are added.

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The spinach in this recipe not only adds a vibrant color but also provides essential nutrients like iron and calcium. When selecting spinach, opt for fresh, bright green leaves and wash them thoroughly to remove any grit. This power ingredient wilts down significantly, so don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first; it will reduce to a manageable amount and integrate beautifully with the other components.

Using paprika offers a mild sweetness and earthy flavor; however, you can substitute it with smoked paprika if you're aiming for a deeper, smoky profile. Additionally, Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like oregano and basil, adding a depth of flavor. If you prefer a different flavor spectrum, consider swapping it with taco seasoning for a zesty twist.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional)

Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the skillet to remove any grit.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Then add the chopped spinach, paprika, and Italian seasoning, cooking until the spinach is wilted.

Season and Serve

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables to the skillet for added nutrition and color. You can also use different protein sources such as turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier option.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, you can use a microwave or return it to the skillet over low heat until warmed through. If you desire to keep the spinach vibrant and fresh, consider storing the beef and spinach mixture separately and combining it just before serving.

If you wish to make a larger batch, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet, or you can split it into two pans to maintain even cooking. Adjust the seasoning slightly depending on your taste preference, as the increased volume may dilute the original flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl over a base of cooked rice or quinoa. This not only adds substance but also enhances the dish with additional textures. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, providing a similar bite while being veggie-heavy.

For a freshness boost, consider topping the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. This addition will not only brighten the flavors but also add an appealing visual contrast. Some grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top can also enhance the creaminess and balance the savory elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, frozen spinach works well; just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick!

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or lentils are great alternatives if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.