Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I add rice or potatoes to make it more filling?

Absolutely. Cooked rice or thinly sliced, parboiled potatoes can be layered or mixed in for a hearty meal.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Use lean ground beef and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Reduce cheese or use part-skim varieties.

How long will leftovers last?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Ground Beef Spinach Casserole – Easy Weeknight Dinner 2026

Name: Ground Beef Spinach Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon paprika; 4 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained); 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional); 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups cooked rice (optional); 2 cups thinly sliced, parboiled potatoes (optional)

Description

A hearty, comforting casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender spinach, creamy cheese, and simple pantry ingredients. This easy baked dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner. It’s rich, satisfying, and can easily be adapted to include rice or potatoes for a complete one-pan meal.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9×13-inch casserole dish):

For the Casserole Base:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika

Vegetables:

4 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for a ground beef spinach tomato variation)

Creamy Layer:

1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Add-Ins (for heartier versions):

1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
OR
2 cups thinly sliced, parboiled potatoes

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess grease.
Add garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook 1 more minute.

Step 3: Add Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes).
If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained before mixing in.
Add diced tomatoes if using.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Mixture
In a bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheeses until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Casserole
Spread beef and spinach mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Spread creamy mixture over the top.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and cheddar evenly.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden, slightly crispy top.

Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Healthy Version: Use 90–93% lean ground beef and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• With Rice: Mix cooked rice directly into the beef mixture before baking.
• With Potatoes: Layer thinly sliced parboiled potatoes at the bottom before adding beef mixture.
• Skillet Version: Skip baking and melt cheese directly in the skillet for a quick ground beef and spinach skillet meal.
• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course / Casserole
Method: Stovetop + Baked
Cuisine: American Comfort Food