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, washed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Shortcuts

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl for dinner on busy weeknights. It's a quick, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dish that brings the tasty combination of seasoned ground beef and fresh spinach right to my kitchen table in just 30 minutes. The best part is that it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy my food! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your weeknight rotation.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:05:36.244Z

When I first made this Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl, I was blown away by how quickly it came together and how satisfying it was to eat. The combination of tender ground beef, fresh spinach, and just the right amount of spices creates a balance of flavors that really hits the spot. I especially love adding some garlic and onion to deepen the flavor.

One tip I’ve found is to use fresh spinach instead of frozen, as it retains a wonderful green color and a slight crunch even after cooking. This dish is not only hearty but also perfect for meal prep, as the leftovers reheat beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef providing rich, meaty flavor
Fresh spinach adding vibrant color and essential nutrients
Quick one-pan preparation for easy cleanup

Cooking Technique Tips

For the best results when browning the ground beef, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This helps to develop a rich, savory crust. Aim for a medium-high heat, and allow the beef to sear without stirring too frequently, turning it only when it's browned on one side. This technique enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

When sautéing your onions and garlic, watch for the onions to turn translucent and the garlic to become fragrant, which usually takes about 3 minutes. You want to avoid browning the garlic too much, as it can turn bitter. Use a wooden spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits that may stick to the bottom of the pan; those add depth to the final dish.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh spinach isn't just for color; it brings vital nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. When incorporating it into the skillet, remember that it wilts down significantly, so it may seem like a lot at first. If you're short on time, you can substitute with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

The addition of beef broth adds a layer of richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be excellent substitutes that still maintain the dish's comfort food vibe. Adjust your seasoning slightly based on the broth you choose; for example, low-sodium options may require a touch more salt.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, washed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup beef broth
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes. Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Season & Simmer

Once the beef is browned, stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the Spinach

Fold in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, around 2-3 minutes. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet briefly until melted.

Your Ground Beef And Spinach Skillet Bowl is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips

To add some heat, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce when cooking the beef. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet Bowl is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrients. Alternatively, I enjoy it on its own as a low-carb option. Top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

For families, consider creating a DIY bowl station. Offer additional toppings such as avocado, diced tomatoes, or scallions that can be added individually. This approach allows everyone to customize their meal, encouraging more engagement around the dinner table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If you plan to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat frozen portions, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them. For faster reheating, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. Just a splash of broth may help refresh the dish’s moisture and keep it from drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

While you can use frozen spinach, fresh spinach works best for a vibrant and crunchy texture.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this skillet bowl can be made ahead and reheated for easy meals throughout the week.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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