Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for my family! It’s a perfect blend of hearty beef, vibrant spinach, and a creamy, cheesy topping that everyone enjoys. The layers of flavors come together beautifully, making it a satisfying meal any night of the week. I find that it’s also a great way to sneak in some greens, and the best part is that it’s simple to prepare. After a long day, it’s comforting to know I can whip up this delicious dish in no time.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:07:28.078Z

One evening, I decided to experiment with some ground beef I had on hand, and after a few iterations, I landed on this fantastic casserole. The trick is to sauté the spinach until just wilted, which maintains its vibrant color and bright flavor. I also love using a mix of cheeses on top for that golden-brown crust that makes the dish so inviting.

This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially during busy weeks. I often prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when I'm ready to eat. The leftovers never last long, and the kids always come back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a perfect balance of flavors
Vegetables sneak in for a nutritious boost without compromising taste
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

The Role of Spinach

Spinach is a powerhouse ingredient in this casserole, not just for its nutritional value but also for its ability to blend seamlessly with the other flavors. When cooked, spinach wilts down significantly, allowing it to add a vibrant green layer that enhances visual appeal without overpowering the dish. To ensure the best taste, use fresh spinach over frozen, as it retains a better texture and flavor when sautéed.

It’s important to thoroughly chop the spinach before adding it to the beef mixture. This ensures even distribution throughout the casserole. Additionally, draining any excess moisture after sautéing prevents the casserole from becoming too watery, which can happen if the spinach releases its liquid during baking.

Assembling the Perfect Layers

Layering is crucial in achieving a well-balanced flavor profile in your casserole. When creating layers, ensure that the ricotta cheese is spread evenly to allow its creamy texture to meld with the ground beef and spinach. This step not only contributes to the overall creaminess but also helps to bind the ingredients together as they bake.

Press down gently on each layer to create stability within the dish. It prevents the layers from separating during serving. If you enjoy a cheesier casserole, feel free to increase the quantity of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese—just keep an eye on the baking time, as extra cheese can lengthen the cooking process slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to measure everything out for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole:

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over it, followed by half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful casserole with a side salad or bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or substituting ground turkey for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just ensure to cover it with foil to avoid drying out. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven, which allows for even cooking.

If you want to store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, substitute the meat with additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, adjusting cooking times as needed to soften them.

Herbs and spices can also elevate the flavor of this casserole. Experiment by adding crushed red pepper for heat or fresh basil for a brighter taste. You can even mix in different cheeses like cheddar or feta to change the flavor profile—just remember that it might alter the baking time slightly, so keep an eye out for bubbling edges or a golden crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute works well for this recipe.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

→ How can I make it more cheesy?

Feel free to add more mozzarella or even include some cream cheese for a creamier texture.