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 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole because it’s a comforting and filling dish that satisfies the whole family. The combination of seasoned ground beef with earthy spinach creates a delightful harmony of flavors, while the creamy sauce adds a richness that ties everything together beautifully. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that simplifies dinner on busy nights, and I can always count on leftovers for lunch the next day. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more veggies on the plate!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:56:49.045Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how easily the flavors blended together. I opted for fresh spinach because it wilts down perfectly, absorbing the juices from the beef and spices. I remember thinking how much my family appreciated the hearty texture and the creamy sauce made from scratch.

The trick to making this dish a winner is browning the beef well before adding the other ingredients. This enhances the depth of flavor and keeps the casserole from being too watery. Trust me, taking that extra few minutes is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying without being overly heavy
A great way to sneak in leafy greens for picky eaters
Leftovers taste even better the next day

Cooking Techniques for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole, thoroughly brown the ground beef. Cook it over medium-high heat until it develops a nice browned crust, which deepens the flavor of the dish. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if your skillet is too full, the beef will steam rather than brown. A good visual reference is when the meat is no longer pink and the skillet is slightly coated in brown bits, which will enhance the overall taste.

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the casserole is crucial. The right technique involves cooking them until they become translucent and aromatic, about 3-5 minutes. This not only builds a flavor foundation for the dish but also avoids the raw taste of onions, making the casserole more palatable. My tip is to keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing those sweet flavors to emerge.

Ingredient Substitutions and Enhancements

If you're looking to lighten the dish a bit, consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives can yield a lower-fat version of the casserole while still retaining moisture; just ensure that you season sufficiently to compensate for the milder flavor of these meats. For additional flavor, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the dish with deep, robust notes.

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream and mozzarella with non-dairy alternatives, such as cashew cream and vegan cheese. Be sure to choose a non-dairy cream that is thick and rich, mimicking the texture of heavy cream. Additionally, adding some nutritional yeast can provide that cheesy flavor while keeping the dish plant-based.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This casserole keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. The topping may not stay as crisp as when freshly baked but you can broil it for a minute or two to regain some crunch.

For serving, complement your casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh burst of flavor. This not only adds color to the plate but enhances the taste with a layer of greenery.

Ingredients

Gather all of the following ingredients to make your delicious casserole.

For the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to prep all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your flavorful casserole.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them until translucent.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Fold in the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes with their juice. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until the spinach diminishes in volume.

Combine with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and half of the mozzarella cheese, ensuring everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Layer and Bake

Transfer the beef and spinach mixture to a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the casserole. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating mushrooms or bell peppers into the beef mixture. You can also use cooked quinoa instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free topping.

Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

One common issue is having a soggy casserole. This can happen if excess liquid from the tomatoes is not adequately accounted for. To prevent this, consider draining the diced tomatoes before adding them. Additionally, you can cook down the beef mixture a bit longer to evaporate any excess moisture before combining with the cream and cheese, creating a thicker consistency that holds up well during baking.

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the spinach, which can lead to a lackluster texture and dull flavors. To maintain its bright color and nutrients, add the spinach towards the end of your beef cooking time, allowing just enough heat to wilt it down. It should be tender yet vibrant green when incorporated into the casserole.

Scaling and Variations

If you're feeding a larger crowd or planning to freeze portions, this recipe can easily be doubled. Simply use a larger skillet to brown the beef or divide the mixture between two baking dishes. When doubling, keep an eye on the baking time as it may require a few extra minutes to ensure everything is cooked through and bubbly.

For a twist on the classic flavor profile, consider adding different vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These can be sautéed along with the onions for a richer, more varied flavor and additional nutritional benefits. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients and fit well in each serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just ensure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of cream.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a full meal.