Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole

Name: Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole for dinner because it’s a fantastic blend of flavor and nutrition. Whenever I prepare this dish, I know I’m serving my family something hearty while sneaking in some greens. The combination of tender beef, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheese creates a delightful comfort food experience. Plus, it’s easy to throw together on busy weeknights and works wonderfully as leftovers for lunch. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in our household!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:26:28.589Z

I remember the first time I made this Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole. The aroma that filled the kitchen during cooking was irresistible, drawing my family into the room. I experimented with different cheeses to find the perfect balance, finally settling on a mix of mozzarella and parmesan. This gave the dish its creamy, indulgent texture without overpowering the spinach's fresh taste.

One tip I found helpful was to partially cook the spinach before mixing it with the beef, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a casserole that not only satisfies but also transports you to comfort-food heaven. Now, it’s a regular feature on our dinner table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a rich flavor profile
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach
Easy to make ahead and perfect for meal prepping

      

The Importance of Layering

Layering is crucial in this casserole for achieving a balanced flavor and texture. Each layer contributes its own unique taste and helps distribute the ingredients evenly. When assembling, ensure that the marinara sauce is generously spread at the bottom to maintain moisture, preventing the noodles from sticking. As you layer the beef and spinach mixtures, consider pressing them down slightly to form a solid base that holds together when served.

It's also beneficial to alternate the beef and spinach layers; this ensures that everyone gets a taste of both in each serving. The ricotta cheese in the spinach mixture helps blend the flavors and provides creaminess, which contrasts beautifully with the hearty beef. Aim to create at least two layers of each mixture for a visually appealing and tasty dish.

Cheese: The Heart of Casserole Creaminess

The choice of cheese significantly impacts both flavor and texture in this casserole. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan provides a rich, creamy base. Ricotta adds moisture, while mozzarella provides that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Parmesan brings a sharpness that enhances the overall flavor profile. For a twist, try swapping out the mozzarella for provolone or gouda to experiment with different tastes.

Additionally, be mindful of the cheese layering; sprinkling the mozzarella over the final layer not only enhances the visual presentation but also contributes to that coveted golden, bubbly finish on top. Keep an eye on it during baking—if it browns too quickly, lightly drape a piece of aluminum foil over the casserole.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld together before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you prefer to freeze it, you can do so before baking. Wrap the assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to bake from frozen, simply remove the wraps and cover with foil, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until heated through. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days and can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Spinach Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, drain excess fat if necessary.

Prepare the Spinach Mixture

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese, parmesan, and the egg until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer with lasagna noodles, half the spinach mixture, and half the beef mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top.

Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top layer. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Finish Baking

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. This adds a lovely kick to the casserole. You can also use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a simple green salad to balance the richness. A light balsamic vinaigrette can complement the flavors well, enhancing the overall meal experience. You can also offer a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to scoop up any saucy goodness left on the plate. Incorporating a side vegetable like steamed broccoli or roasted carrots serves to add both nutrition and color to the dining table.

For a heartier meal, consider pairing this dish with a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied red complements the beef nicely, while its acidity can help cut through the richness of the cheese. If you're hosting a gathering, this casserole will impress with both its comforting taste and beautiful presentation when served hot and bubbly from the oven.

Dietary Adjustments

For a leaner version, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These alternatives will yield a lighter casserole while still providing ample protein. Additionally, if you're looking to cut down on carbs, consider substituting the lasagna noodles with sliced zucchini or eggplant, creating a delicious vegetable layer that adds freshness and reduces starch.

If dairy is an issue, you can use dairy-free cheese or cashew-based cream in place of the ricotta and mozzarella. Just be sure to check that the dairy substitutes melt well, as some don't achieve the same creamy texture as traditional cheese. Always taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly, as dairy-free products may vary in flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking or before baking. Just ensure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.