Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef & Spinach Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Combining savory ground beef with nutritious spinach and a blend of cheeses, it’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. You’ll love its cheesy, baked goodness that comes together in one dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the thawed and drained spinach, diced tomatoes, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Step 4: Transfer the beef and spinach mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top, then finish with an even layer of breadcrumbs.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil before adding the ground beef.
• Use fresh spinach if you prefer; simply sauté it until wilted before mixing.
• Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a fresher taste.
• Mix in cooked pasta or rice for a heartier casserole.
• Top with extra mozzarella for a cheesier crust.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, to preserve the crispy topping. You can also microwave individual portions, but the topping may lose some crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when ready.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well and makes the dish lighter, just adjust the cooking time until the meat is fully cooked.

Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 56 reviews

A hearty and comforting Ground Beef & Spinach Casserole that combines savory browned beef, nutritious spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner with balanced flavors and textures.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Topping

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook the ground beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until evenly browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and the garlic fragrant. Stir in the thawed and drained spinach, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook together until warmed through and combined.
3. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly, then layer with dollops of ricotta cheese, followed by shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy and cheesy texture.
4. Add the breadcrumb topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the cazserole for a crunchy, golden crust.
5. Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

• For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef and part-skim cheeses.
• You can substitute fresh spinach for frozen; just be sure to cook and drain it thoroughly before adding.
• Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can give the casserole a mild heat.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before serving to allow it to set.
• Breadcrumb topping can be swapped with crushed crackers or panko for extra crunch.

Keywords: ground beef casserole, spinach casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, one dish meal