Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz pasta (your choice); Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I love whipping up this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for a comforting meal that never fails to impress. The combination of savory beef, vibrant spinach, and melty cheese creates a satisfying dish that my family constantly requests. It's perfect for a cozy dinner and can be prepared ahead of time, making weeknight cooking feel effortless. The hearty flavors meld together beautifully, and I find that leftovers taste even better the next day, which is always a bonus! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it has a special place in my heart.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:48:45.928Z

When I first tried to create this casserole, I wanted something that balanced flavors and offered a comforting, home-cooked feel. After several experiments, I discovered that sautéing the spinach with garlic before adding it to the beef infuses the dish with a delicious depth of flavor. It was an eye-opening moment that transformed my recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

What really surprised me was how beautifully the flavors meld together when baked. The cheese forms a bubbly, golden crust that adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender beef and spinach. I've served this to friends, and they've all asked for the recipe, reminding me why I enjoy cooking so much!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying dish perfect for the whole family
Delicious blend of flavors with nutritious spinach
Easy to prepare ahead of time, making dinner effortless

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Casserole

The key to achieving the perfect Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole lies in the technique of combining your ingredients. As you sauté the onions and garlic, aim for a translucent appearance; this process releases their sweet flavors. When adding the ground beef, break it into smaller pieces with your spatula to ensure it browns evenly. Browning should occur around medium heat, taking about 6-8 minutes, which enhances the meat's umami flavor and prevents a chewy texture.

Another important step is to wilt the spinach just enough before adding the diced tomatoes. Doing this requires about 2-3 minutes of cooking over medium heat; the spinach should turn bright green and reduce in volume, allowing it to incorporate seamlessly into the casserole. This not only enhances the dish's aesthetic appeal but also ensures you get the health benefits of spinach without the dish becoming watery.

Making It Ahead of Time

Preparing the Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole ahead of time makes weeknight dinners smoother. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in your greased dish, cover it tightly with foil, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven and extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to accommodate the chill from the fridge.

If you wish to freeze the casserole for later use, I recommend freezing it before baking. Wrap the assembled casserole in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed for a comforting meal at your convenience.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz pasta (your choice)
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the spinach until wilted, then add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Combine with Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef-spinach mixture. Mix well.

Layer in Casserole Dish

Transfer half of the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella, then add the remaining pasta mixture. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also use ground turkey as a lighter alternative to beef.

Flavors and Texture Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile further, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you sauté the beef. These ingredients add depth and a hint of heat, transforming the dish from simple to spectacular. Additionally, using a mix of cheeses can enhance the texture; try blending sharp cheddar with mozzarella for a delightful twist and a more complex flavor.

The cooking process for the pasta is equally crucial. Aim for 'al dente,' as it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb some of the sauce, allowing for better flavor integration. If you overcook it, however, the final casserole may end up mushy, so set a timer for a minute or two less than the package instructions suggest.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful serving experience, pair the casserole with a tangy side salad featuring a vinaigrette dressing. The acidity of the dressing complements the richness of the cheese and beef beautifully. I also recommend serving with some crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness left in the dish.

If you're looking for variations, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish or introducing additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture and flavor. You could also try different pastas like whole wheat or gluten-free options, depending on dietary restrictions, providing wholesome alternatives without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking.

→ What type of cheese can I use besides mozzarella?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this casserole freezable?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it's well covered to prevent freezer burn.