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; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for my family on busy weeknights. It’s a simple dish packed with flavor, and it allows me to sneak in some nutritious spinach without anyone noticing! By layering the ingredients and baking them together, the flavors meld beautifully. Each scoop is filled with hearty beef and creamy cheese, making it comforting yet wholesome. I often pair this with a side salad for a complete meal that everyone enjoys!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:38:27.595Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to make a complete meal in one dish. Ground beef paired with spinach creates an unexpected yet satisfying combination that my whole family loves. I usually prepare it on Sundays to have leftovers for the week, and it heats up perfectly!

I learned that browning the beef before mixing in the spinach is key; it not only enhances the flavor but also helps the casserole hold together better. Using a mix of cheeses adds depth, so don’t skip that part!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty beef flavor meets nutritious spinach for a balanced dish.
Cheesy layers melt together for a deliciously creamy texture.
A one-pan meal means less cleanup and more family time!

      

Tips for Cooking the Ground Beef

When browning the ground beef, ensure the skillet is preheated over medium heat. This helps in achieving that nice, caramelized color and prevents the meat from steaming. As the beef cooks, use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into smaller pieces for even cooking. If you're using lean beef, you may not have much grease to drain, but if you're working with fattier options, draining excess fat is crucial to avoid a greasy casserole.

To enhance the flavor of the beef, consider adding a pinch of salt and pepper directly during the browning process. This not only seasons the meat but also contributes to a deeper, more savory flavor profile when combined with other ingredients. Remember, fully cooked ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), so use an instant-read thermometer to check if you're unsure.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

Layering is key to this casserole's success. When spreading the beef and spinach mixture in the baking dish, ensure an even distribution, allowing every scoop to have a good balance of flavors. Using a spatula makes it easier to spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the beef. For a creamy texture, drop spoonfuls of ricotta and then gently spread them out—a little chaos in distribution is fine, as the cheese will settle and meld during baking.

Don’t forget the topping layer! Adding the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top not only gives it a delightful golden, bubbly finish but also creates a flavorful crust. For an extra crispy texture, you could briefly broil the casserole during the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful casserole that combines the richness of beef with the health benefits of spinach.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, let’s move on to the simple steps to whip up this comforting casserole!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole that your family will request over and over again.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped spinach and drained tomatoes. Cook until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the beef and spinach mixture. Layer half of the ricotta cheese, followed by half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a crunchy salad on the side!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the beef while browning. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, consider using turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Both options work well and absorb the flavors of the dish beautifully. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, substitute the beef with lentils or a mixture of mushrooms and beans to keep the casserole hearty and satisfying.

For the cheeses, if ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, though its texture is slightly different. Additionally, try swapping mozzarella for a blend of other melty cheeses like Gouda or Havarti for a unique flavor variation. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains roughly the same for ideal melting.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just assemble it as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it until you're ready. Ensure to adjust the baking time if cooking from chilled, adding an additional 5-10 minutes as needed.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking from chilled.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with the casserole for a complete meal.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.