Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

I love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. It combines hearty ground beef with the nutritious goodness of spinach, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. I find that this dish is not only comforting but also a fantastic way to sneak in some greens. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan meal that comes together in no time, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation. The best part? Everyone loves it, even the picky eaters!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T10:54:28.695Z

When I first tried making this casserole, I wanted to create a dish that was both delicious and packed with nutritional value. The combination of rich ground beef and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce quickly became a favorite in my home. I discovered that sautéing the spinach first really enhances its flavor without losing its vibrant green color.

This recipe is versatile too. On days when my refrigerator is running low, I can easily add other vegetables or even transform it into a vegetarian option with beans. It's all about making it work for you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delicious blend of savory beef and nutritious spinach
Creamy, cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages
Ideal for meal prep or entertaining friends and family

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When making the Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole, the choice of ingredients significantly impacts the flavor and texture of the dish. I recommend using freshly chopped spinach rather than frozen to maintain a vibrant color and crisp texture. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and integrates well with the other ingredients. Additionally, select a high-quality ground beef, ideally with a bit of fat content for added richness. A leaner beef can lead to a dry casserole, so aim for ground beef that’s around 80% lean.

The type of cheese you use also plays a crucial role in the overall creaminess of the casserole. While the recipe calls for ricotta and mozzarella, feel free to mix in some parmesan for a sharper flavor. This blend not only enhances the richness but also creates a delightful stringiness when melted on top. To elevate the dish further, consider using a blend of cheeses such as provolone or gouda, which will complement the beef and spinach beautifully.

Technique Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant is a critical step that builds the foundational flavors of this casserole. Aim for a translucent look—this usually takes about 5 minutes on medium heat. If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow the flavors to develop without burning. I find that this gentle cooking avoids bitter notes that can detract from the comforting nature of the dish.

When adding the spinach and tomatoes, cook until the spinach is just wilted—around 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture and a muddy color. The goal is to integrate the flavors without losing the integrity of the spinach. Once the mixture meets the right texture, combine it with the cheese mixture promptly to ensure a creamy consistency throughout the casserole.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Mix all these ingredients together to create a wonderful blend of flavors!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, around 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Combine with Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes while cooking the beef. You can also swap the spinach with kale or mix in your favorite herbs for additional flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent any drying out. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking when baked.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish also freezes well! Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last for two to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to get creative with this casserole by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These vegetables can be sautéed alongside the onions for extra flavor and nutrition. If you want to make it a little spicier, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.

For serving, a fresh salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty casserole. Consider a simple side of mixed greens lightly dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to complement the richness of the dish. It’s also delightful topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the overall flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow extra baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.