Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy ground beef skillet recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to impress your family with this homemade cooking masterpiece – a true contender for best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This is a crucial step for achieving that rich, flavorful base for your quick dinner ideas.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate the Spinach
Add the thawed and squeezed spinach to the skillet and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. This simple step adds a nutritious boost to your healthy meals.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese, milk (or cream), Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread, rice, or your favorite pasta.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese before serving.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over cooked pasta or mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This creamy ground beef skillet is a versatile and delicious recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's a great example of how easy recipes can be both flavorful and healthy. Enjoy this homemade cooking creation – a true addition to your best recipes collection!