Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole is the perfect dish for cozy family nights. Its rich blend of cheesy goodness, tender potatoes, and nutritious spinach brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day or a delicious dish for family gatherings, this casserole will surely delight everyone.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
This Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole is packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses makes it a wholesome dinner option. Plus, potatoes add a satisfying texture, making it a complete one-dish meal.
Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish lightly with butter or oil.
- Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or oil). Add chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until soft, around 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the boiled potatoes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Add this mixture to the skillet with beef, spinach, and potatoes. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!It’s easy to prepare, which means more time to spend with your family and less time in the kitchen. With various ingredient options, you can customize the casserole to suit your family’s dietary needs, making it both versatile and inclusive.
How to Make Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 large Eggs (or flaxseed eggs for a vegan option)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (or Gruyère as an alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher or sea salt recommended)
- 4 cups Potatoes (or sweet potatoes for a healthier twist)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (or olive oil for a lighter substitute)
- 1 medium Onion (or shallots for a milder flavor)
- 2 cloves Garlic (or garlic powder for convenience)
- 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (cayenne pepper can be a spicy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor)
- 4 cups Fresh Spinach (or kale/Swiss chard as substitutes)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-sensitive eaters)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (or Pepper Jack for a zesty kick)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic enhances taste)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a casserole dish by greasing it lightly with butter or oil.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or oil). Add chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until soft, around 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef, season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the boiled potatoes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Add this mixture to the skillet with beef, spinach, and potatoes. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with family!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
Serve the cheesy beef and potato spinach casserole hot from the oven. For a delightful presentation, pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor. This dish makes for excellent leftovers, so feel free to dish out portions for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
How to Store Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
To store your casserole, allow it to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the dish securely in heavy-duty foil or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach will provide the best flavor and nutrition. Consider using local or organic produce when possible.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Try adding a sharp feta or creamy ricotta for a unique twist.
- Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef. A touch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of Italian herbs can elevate the overall flavor.
- Customize the Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Flavor Variations
You can easily swap out ingredients in this casserole to make it your own. Consider using:
- Different Proteins: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Alternative Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aromatic touch.
- Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat.
Pro Tips for Success
- Check for Doneness: Always check if the casserole is fully cooked. It should be hot all the way through, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before you serve it. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
FAQs About Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Baking it the next day will save you time and make serving day easier.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can work great as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a meat substitute available at your local grocery store.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially processed items, are labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef & Potato Spinach Casserole is a heartwarming meal that brings families together. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be modified to suit various dietary needs. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy making lasting memories around the dinner table with this comforting dish.