When it comes to ground beef, there’s no shortage of delicious recipe ideas. But what happens when you add a nutritious and flavorful ingredient like spinach to the mix? The possibilities are endless! In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering ground beef spinach recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef and spinach. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party centerpiece, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of flavorful ground beef spinach recipes!
Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Add some flavor and nutrition to your meal with this simple and delicious recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked spinach, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake
A comforting, creamy pasta bake filled with ground beef, spinach, and a blend of cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, spinach, cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the meat mixture in a large bowl. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ground Beef Lasagna Rolls
A classic Italian-inspired dish with a twist! This recipe combines the flavors of spinach and ground beef with the convenience of lasagna rolls. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, and egg in a bowl.
7. Spread a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at the ends.
8. Roll up each noodle and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
9. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Spinach Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful quesadillas packed with seasoned ground beef, wilted spinach, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, warm tortillas for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef and spinach mixture onto half of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
7. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Mushroom Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-skillet meal that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, mushrooms, and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Spinach Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy ground beef with the freshness of wilted spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 8 oz fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, shredded cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef and spinach mixture onto a tortilla and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic comfort food dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of ground beef, spinach, and ricotta cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat-ricotta mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Cover with marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are cooked through and filling is hot.
9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Ground Beef and Spinach Rice Pilaf
A hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this pilaf combines the savory taste of ground beef with the nutrients of spinach and the comfort of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, water, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Feta Meatballs
Ground Beef Spinach and Feta Meatballs Recipe
Elevate your meatball game with this delicious combination of ground beef, wilted spinach, and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, egg, olive oil, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sauce or as is.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Spinach Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of ground beef and the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the butter and stir until melted.
4. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Season with soy sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Potato Hash
This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, spinach, and potatoes for a satisfying and filling breakfast or brunch. The dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped potatoes and cooked ground beef mixture to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the chopped spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Beef and Spinach Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food recipe with a twist – the addition of fresh spinach! This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add spinach, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, these Spinach and Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious and nutritious main course option.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, spinach, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Tomato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring ground beef, spinach, and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Mozzarella Calzones
These calzones are a delicious twist on traditional Italian fare, packed with flavorful ground beef, wilted spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture onto half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Fold other half of dough over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg and cut a few slits in top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
These savory treats combine the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the richness of ground beef and spinach. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and stem the mushrooms.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated and heated through.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the ground beef mixture.
6. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Parmesan Risotto
This hearty risotto combines ground beef, wilted spinach, and melted Parmesan cheese for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in cooked ground beef mixture, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef Spinach and Egg Breakfast Scramble
A hearty breakfast scramble packed with flavorful ground beef, wilted spinach, and creamy eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until almost set, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the eggs and stir until wilted.
6. Combine the ground beef with the egg mixture.
7. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine ground beef with spinach for a flavorful twist. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try stuffing peppers or lasagna rolls with a savory mix of ground beef and spinach, or go for something new like cheesy quesadillas or spicy tacos. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick stir-fry, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.