ground meat spinach recipe

The Best ground meat spinach recipe

I love this ground meat spinach recipe because it’s a staple in our household. My kids always ask for seconds, and it’s a great way to get them to eat their greens. The key to this recipe is using fresh spinach and not overcooking it, so it retains its texture and flavor.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like holidays or parties. Plus, it’s relatively healthy since it’s made with ground meat and spinach, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier meal option.

This recipe has its roots in traditional Greek cuisine, where meat and spinach are commonly paired together in stews and casseroles. The combination of flavors and textures is just right – the savory taste of the meat pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the spinach. It’s also easy to make, which is why I love it so much.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as is, or add your own twist by adding different spices or herbs. I like to add a pinch of nutmeg to give it an extra boost of flavor.

The technique behind making this dish is all about balancing the flavors and textures. You want to make sure the meat is cooked through but still retains some moisture, while the spinach is wilted but still has some crunch to it.

Ground Meat and Spinach Stuffed Shells

4.6 from 1499 votes

A hearty and comforting dish featuring ground meat and spinach stuffed into pasta shells, baked with a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 package jumbo pasta shells
1 large onion
2 cloves garlic
1 can (10 oz) frozen spinach
1 egg
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

For the Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and ground pork over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
6Drain excess fat.
7Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
8Cook until the onions are translucent.
9Stir in the spinach, ricotta, parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
10Mix well and set aside.
11In a separate skillet, sauté the garlic and onion for the sauce in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until softened.
12Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
13Simmer for 10 minutes.
14Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
15Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the meat and spinach mixture.
16Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
17Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
18Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
19Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top before serving.

Watch Video Of How Ground Meat and Spinach Stuffed Shells Works

This ground meat spinach recipe is a great idea for any occasion, whether it is a family gathering or a busy weeknight. It is easy to prepare, nutritious, and delicious. I love that it can be customized with additional ingredients and served with a variety of sides.

This dish is always a hit with my family and friends. I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, add a little bit of water or broth to the dish to help it stay moist.

This dish can be served with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables. I like to serve it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Meat and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Q: What type of meat works best in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of ground meat you prefer, such as beef, pork, or a combination of the two. I like to use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and texture.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute for fresh spinach. Just thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the recipe.

Q: How do I prevent the spinach from becoming too soggy?

A: To prevent the spinach from becoming too soggy, make sure to cook it until it’s just wilted – you don’t want it to be overcooked or mushy.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the ground meat and spinach mixture up to a day in advance. Simply refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians since it contains ground meat.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as diced carrots or sliced bell peppers to add more color and nutrients to the dish.

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