Description
This Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice is an easy, comforting, family-friendly meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender spinach, creamy cauliflower rice, and a melted Italian cheese topping. It is a satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together with simple ingredients.
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
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon butter, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 2–3 tablespoons milk, if needed
- 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 20 seconds, until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
- Add the Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for about 1 minute, until wilted.
- Drain the Beef: Drain any excess liquid from the beef mixture and set aside.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil. Stir until creamy. Add milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Combine: Add the cooked beef mixture to the cauliflower rice mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 22–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 7–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Extra Vegetables: Add peas or carrots for additional vegetables.
- Protein Swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used instead of ground beef.
- Baking: Bake uncovered to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
- Resting: Allow the casserole to rest before serving for the best texture.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American