Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked pasta (optional, for a heartier casserole)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for my family because it combines hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients in a way that everyone enjoys. The savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and rich cheeses create a comforting dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Each time I prepare it, I appreciate how easy it is to assemble and how it fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma. Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:14:28.356Z

Every time I serve this casserole, I’m reminded of the comfort it brings to the table. The combination of ground beef and spinach not only makes it a nutritious choice but also incredibly satisfying. I love how a few simple ingredients can transform into something so delicious, particularly when topped with gooey melted cheese.

One of my favorite tips when making this dish is to sauté the spinach before adding it to the mix. This helps bring out its flavor and ensures that it blends beautifully with the beef. I’ve found that this small step elevates the dish, making it even more enjoyable for my family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty mix of flavors that delights the palate
Nutritious ingredients make it guilt-free comfort food
Leftovers are just as delicious, perfect for meal prep

      

Cooking Techniques to Elevate Your Casserole

When preparing the ground beef, it's essential to brown it properly until it develops a nice golden crust, about 5-7 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction but also gives the beef a pleasant texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming. If you want to reduce fat, consider using lean ground beef or turkey, which work wonderfully in this casserole without sacrificing flavor.

Sautéing the spinach until wilted is not just for texture; it also concentrates the spinach's flavor and helps remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy casserole. Aim for about 5 minutes on medium heat, and you’ll notice the vibrant green color turning darker and more appealing. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mix.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The cheeses used in this recipe serve distinct roles: ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella provides stretch and melt, while Parmesan contributes a sharp, nutty flavor. If you're looking for lower-fat alternatives, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, try cashew cheese or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity, enhancing the dish's overall flavor. If you'd like more depth, consider fire-roasted diced tomatoes or adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for an herbal note. Note that using fresh tomatoes will require additional cooking; aim for firm varieties like Roma to avoid excess liquid.

Serving and Storing Your Casserole

This casserole is versatile and can be served as a stand-alone dish or accompanied by a fresh salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal. I enjoy garnishing my servings with freshly chopped basil or parsley, which adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.

For storage, let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you're planning to freeze leftovers, portion them out in individual servings to make reheating easier. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked pasta (optional, for a heartier casserole)

Instructions

Steps

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and add the chopped spinach.

Sauté for another 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using pasta, mix it in at this stage.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with additional mozzarella cheese, if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the casserole by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Casserole Issues

If your casserole turns out watery, it might be due to excess moisture from the spinach or tomatoes. To fix this in the future, you can pre-cook the spinach and drain it well, or include breadcrumbs to absorb extra moisture. Also, avoid using overly juicy tomatoes, as they can contribute to sogginess.

For uneven cooking, ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to allow all ingredients to combine thoroughly. This step ensures that flavors are well distributed. Additionally, check your oven's calibration; inconsistencies in temperature can lead to an unevenly cooked dish.

Scaling the Recipe for Larger Gatherings

Scaling up this recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward; simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. If using a larger dish, keep an eye on the baking time, as it may require additional time to cook through evenly, potentially 5-10 minutes longer.

For smaller portions, you can easily halve the recipe and use a smaller baking dish or even make individual servings in ramekins. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also allows for quicker baking times, around 15-20 minutes depending on your oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can include veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor.