Ground Beef and Spinach: Simple, Satisfying, Now

A classic pairing that brings together hearty beef, iron-rich greens, and wholesome carbs into one complete meal.

Ground beef and spinach is comfort food that doesn't apologize. The beef provides substance and richness, while spinach adds earthiness and nutrition without fuss. Paired with rice and broccoli, you have something that feels both nourishing and genuinely good to eat—the kind of dinner that works any night of the week.

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Ground Beef and Vegetable Rice Bowl

Total Time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

A quick and nutritious one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef with fresh spinach and broccoli served over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups rice
3 cups broccoli florets
2 cups fresh spinach
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in minced garlic and cumin, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add rice and stir to coat with oil, cooking for 2 minutes.
Pour in beef broth and soy sauce, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until rice is tender.
Add broccoli florets and spinach to the pot, stir well, and cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender and spinach is wilted.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately in bowls.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Increase the spinach and broccoli, reduce the beef slightly, and use brown rice for more fiber. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything without adding heaviness.

Hearty Option

Brown the beef with butter and garlic, fold in wilted spinach, and stir through creamy rice for richness. A generous grating of cheese makes it feel even more indulgent.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Swap ground beef for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu, keeping the spinach and broccoli as anchors. The result is just as satisfying and works beautifully with the same rice base.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Ground turkey or chicken
Cooked lentils
Crumbled tofu
Ground lamb
Italian sausage

Carb Substitutes

Farro or barley
Quinoa
Egg noodles
Mashed potatoes
Whole wheat pasta

Flavor Boosters

Garlic and ginger
Soy sauce or tamari
Fresh lemon or lime juice
Cumin and paprika
Red pepper flakes or fresh chili

Common Questions

Should I cook the spinach separately or add it raw?

Fresh spinach can be stirred in at the end and will wilt from residual heat. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding so it doesn't water down your dish.

What's the best way to brown ground beef?

Use medium-high heat and let the beef sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring—this develops flavor through browning rather than steaming. Break it into small pieces as it cooks for even texture.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. The components hold well separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or combine and store together for 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water if needed.