Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 box of pasta (like rotini or penne), cooked according to package instructions

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole because it brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting dish that everyone in the family enjoys. The savory blend of seasoned beef, nutritious spinach, and gooey cheese makes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a make-ahead option for busy nights, this casserole offers vibrant flavors and is ready in no time. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:40:50.596Z

When I first tried making a casserole with ground beef and spinach, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the flavors melded together. I browned the beef first, which adds depth to the flavor, and then mixed in the spinach for a touch of color and nutrition. Baking it to perfection with cheese on top made it an instant hit at my table!

What makes this dish special is how versatile it is—you can easily swap out the spinach for kale or add in your favorite vegetables. I also like to customize the spices for additional warmth, creating a unique twist each time I make it. It's a great way to keep dinner exciting!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family.
Healthy greens blend seamlessly in this comforting dish.
Quick to prepare, making weeknight meals a breeze.

Flavor Combinations

The combination of ground beef and spinach creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The savory richness of the beef pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of the spinach. Using fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant green color but also enhances the nutritional value of the dish, offering vitamins and minerals important for a balanced diet. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Cheese plays a crucial role in this casserole, contributing a creamy texture and comforting flavor. Ricotta cheese provides a rich, fluffy layer that contrasts perfectly with the melting mozzarella on top. For a deeper taste, mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese, which can offer a nice tangy bite.

Cooking Techniques

When browning ground beef, ensure that your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This will create a nice sear, enhancing the flavor through caramelization. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks; this will help it cook evenly. Aim for a deep brown color, which typically takes about 5–7 minutes. If the beef releases too much fat, you can drain some off to avoid a greasy casserole.

For the spinach, be careful not to overcook it. You want it to wilt down in just about 2-3 minutes, retaining its vibrant green color and nutrients. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can sauté the spinach in olive oil before adding it to the beef. This simple step can add a hint of richness to the overall dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious casserole:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 box of pasta (like rotini or penne), cooked according to package instructions

Make sure all ingredients are ready before you start the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious casserole:

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, beef, spinach mixture, ricotta, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal!

Keep the leftovers in the fridge for a quick and delightful meal later!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.

Storage and Freezing

This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can assemble it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. If you wish to freeze it, cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the total baking time if it’s still cold.

To reheat leftovers, slice individual portions and place them in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. For a crisper topping, you can also bake the slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until warmed and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the richness of the cheese and meat. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also make excellent accompaniments for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate.

For a more personalized touch, consider adding different herbs or spices based on your taste. Fresh basil or chopped sun-dried tomatoes mixed into the beef and spinach can add a fresh twist to the traditional flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of crushed black pepper or additional Italian herbs on top just before serving can enhance the aroma and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese works well as a substitute if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.

→ Is this casserole gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring the other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.