Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 lasagna sheets, cooked or no-cook

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I discovered the perfect comfort food in this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole that has quickly become a family favorite. The combination of savory beef, nutritious spinach, and creamy cheese creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day! This dish not only warms the heart but also nourishes the body with wholesome ingredients.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:45:36.796Z

When I first made this casserole, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit with my family. The secret is browning the ground beef with onions and garlic beforehand, which really enhances the flavor. I also love adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture for an unexpected warmth. It’s a simple tip, but it transforms the dish!

One night, I decided to experiment by adding some ricotta cheese along with the usual mozzarella and it took the casserole to a whole new level. The creaminess melded beautifully with the other ingredients, making each bite utterly satisfying. Trust me, you’ll want to give that a try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty flavors combined with nutritional spinach
Creamy texture that appeals to everyone
Easy to make with ingredients you probably already have
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd

Crafting the Perfect Balance

The most appealing aspect of this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is its balance of flavors. The mild richness of the ground beef contrasts beautifully with the earthy notes of fresh spinach. The spinach not only adds nutrition but also a vibrant color that enhances the dish’s presentation. When cooking the spinach, aim for just enough heat to wilt it without losing its bright green hue. This keeps the dish visually attractive and ensures a fresh flavor profile.

Using ricotta cheese adds a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef and tangy marinara sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting the ricotta with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative made from blended tofu. Just make sure to season them adequately as they may not have the same flavor intensity as ricotta. Remember, the layering technique is crucial—proper layering ensures that every bite captures the harmonious blend of flavors.

Nailing the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your casserole is key. The combination of soft ricotta, gooey melted mozzarella, and the hearty beef creates a comforting mouthfeel. One tip I love is to allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting period allows the layers to settle, yielding cleaner slices and preventing a soupy mess when serving. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an extra 2-3 minutes after removing the foil, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding a breadcrumb topping mixed with Parmesan for an extra layer of texture. Simply sauté breadcrumbs in a bit of olive oil before sprinkling them on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This gives the casserole a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with the gooey cheese below.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
6 lasagna sheets, cooked or no-cook

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Add Spinach and Seasoning

Stir in the chopped spinach, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the spinach wilts.

Layer the Ingredients

Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer with cooked lasagna sheets, half of the beef mixture, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheeses on top.

Bake the Casserole

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a boost of nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, assembling it completely before refrigerating it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, if it’s cold from the fridge, increase your baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through evenly.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, a microwave works fine, but I recommend using an oven to preserve the texture. Reheat it covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This way, the cheese will remain melty rather than rubbery, giving you that just-baked experience.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding other vegetables to the mixture. Zucchini or mushrooms work beautifully with the beef and can enhance the dish's nutritional profile. Just sauté them alongside the onions for a depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can swap out the marinara for alfredo sauce for a creamy twist, turning your casserole into a rich and decadent meal.

For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or folding in some diced jalapeños. This not only boosts flavor but also adds a delightful heat that can elevate the dish. Additionally, for a lower-carb option, replace the lasagna sheets with sliced zucchini or eggplant. This would reduce the carb content while still delivering a satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I substitute the spinach?

Yes, you can use kale or other leafy greens if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.