Beef-Spinach Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining flavorful ground beef, tender spinach, creamy soup, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet until browned and tender. Cook and drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, frozen spinach, cream of celery soup, and sour cream. Season to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or Italian herbs when sautéing the beef and onion. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just wilt it down before mixing. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add in some cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef-spinach casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or as a side to Mary'S Easy Shepherd'S Pie for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef-spinach casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Spinach Casserole contains roughly 466 calories, with 20g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 8 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted and mix it into the casserole. This will add a nice texture and flavor to the dish, but you'll need to reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make the beef-spinach casserole gluten-free, ensure that the cream of celery soup you use is labeled gluten-free. You can also make your own by blending cooked celery, chicken broth, and a thickener like cornstarch. This way, you avoid any gluten-containing ingredients while keeping the dish flavorful.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you're ready to bake it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals in advance!
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).