Beef Casserole Italiano
Beef Casserole Italiano offers a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese, all layered in a comforting baked dish. Rich tomato flavors and aromatic herbs make it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon leaf oregano
- 1 teaspoon leaf basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 (10 oz) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained ⓘ
- 2 cups Ricotta cheese
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese slices ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain off the fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, parsley flakes, oregano, basil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, combine thawed and drained chopped spinach with the Ricotta cheese and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Spread the spinach mixture around the edges of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cooked beef mixture into the center of the dish.
- Cut each mozzarella cheese slice into 3 strips and arrange in a lattice pattern over the meat.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. If you need a lighter option, swap the Ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so feel free to substitute with fresh parsley, oregano, or basil if available. This dish is reminiscent of a Little Lasagna, making it a comforting family meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Casserole Italiano is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition. Consider complementing it with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Casserole Italiano contains roughly 187 calories, with 13g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 925mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sharper taste, aged cheddar works well too. Just ensure the cheese melts nicely for that perfect casserole texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the layers and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans. For a heartier option, you might consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or even a light pasta dish, enhancing your Italian meal experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).