Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole with Spinach and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. Packed with savory beef, fresh spinach, and creamy cauliflower rice, it’s perfect for a simple dinner that feels special. Quick to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 6 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 10 ounces frozen cauliflower rice, cooked according to package directions
• 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon butter, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, if needed
• 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese or any preferred shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375˚F.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until fully browned.
4. Step 4: Stir in fresh spinach in batches if needed. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until spinach is wilted.
5. Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and drain any excess liquid. Set the beef and spinach mixture aside.
6. Step 6: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil until creamy and combined. If the mixture isn’t smooth, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk to help melt the butter.
7. Step 7: Add the beef mixture to the baking dish and stir until well incorporated.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
9. Step 9: Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
10. Step 10: Remove from the oven and let it stand for 7 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips & Variations

• Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, protein-rich option.
• Substitute cauliflower rice with cooked quinoa or brown rice for a different texture.
• Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
• Top with Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350˚F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust seasonings as needed.