Spinach Beef Casserole
Spinach Beef Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and melted cheese, all baked together to create a satisfying meal. It’s packed with protein and vitamins, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad, this casserole is perfect for a comforting, yet nutritious meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet (for browning beef)
- 1 Baking Dish (9x13 inches)
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 Baking Sheet (optional for additional breadcrumbs)
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 Measuring Cup & Spoons
- 1 Spoon: For serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach or 1½ cups frozen, thawed and drained
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Basil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 Egg
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs optional for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Spinach: While the beef is simmering, sauté the spinach in a separate pan over medium heat until wilted (or, if using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained).
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the beef mixture and sautéed spinach in the greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for extra crunch.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spinach Beef Casserole!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking. Alternatively, it can be assembled and frozen for up to 2 months—just bake it directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.
- Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- For a Lower Carb Option: Omit the breadcrumbs or use low-carb breadcrumbs.