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Fresh ingredients for Beef and Spinach Skillet including ground beef, spinach, and cream arranged on counter

Beef and Spinach Skillet

A creamy, high-protein one-pan dinner featuring ground beef and fresh spinach in a rich cheese sauce
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
  • 4 cups fresh spinach washed and dried
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • 12-inch skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and no pink remains. The beef should develop a nice golden-brown color.
  2. Season the cooked beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the meat.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the seasoned beef. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to coat the back of a spoon and thickens slightly.
  4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet in batches if needed. Stir continuously as the spinach wilts and reduces in volume, about 1-2 minutes total.
  5. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until completely melted and incorporated. Adding cheese slowly prevents clumping.
  6. Continue simmering on low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. The final consistency should be creamy but not too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use a 12-inch skillet for best results. Don't overcook the spinach - it wilts quickly. Add cheese gradually to prevent clumping. Season to taste at the end.