Stuffed Potato, Beef & Spinach Bake with Cheesy Topping

This Stuffed Potato, Beef & Spinach Bake is a hearty, flavorful casserole that brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, vibrant spinach, and a trio of cheeses for a rich and comforting dish. With layers of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, each bite is a melty delight. A fresh cucumber–red onion–tomato salad on the side adds crisp contrast. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or prepping ahead, this bake offers warmth and wholesomeness in every slice.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Serves: 4–6

Ingredients

• Egg mixture & cheese topping

  • 2 large eggs

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • ½ tsp salt

• Potatoes & vegetables

  • 3 fresh potatoes, thinly sliced or grated

  • 1 Tbsp butter

  • 1 fresh onion, finely diced

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

• Beef & spinach layer

  • 200 g (7 oz) ground beef

  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp sweet paprika

  • 50 g (about 2 cups loosely) fresh spinach, chopped

• Binders & topping

  • 100 g (½ cup) breadcrumbs

  • 4 slices cheddar cheese

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salad garnish

  • 1 fresh cucumber, diced

  • 1 fresh red onion, sliced

  • 1 red Ramiro pepper, diced

  • 2–3 spring onions, chopped

  • 1 fresh tomato, chopped

  • Salt & ground pepper, to taste

  • 1–2 Tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat & prep: Preheat oven to 180 °C (360 °F). Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Layer potatoes: In the dish, arrange half the potato slices in an even layer.

3. Cook aromatics: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent. Stir in garlic, cook 30 seconds.

4. Cook beef: Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking up any clumps.

5. Add spinach: Mix in chopped spinach; cook until wilted. Season with garlic powder.

6. Layer beef filling: Spread the beef–spinach mix over potatoes.

7. Cheese & breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over beef, then place cheddar slices on top.

8. Egg-mozzarella mixture: Whisk eggs with mozzarella and salt, pour gently over the layers.

9. Parmesan topping: Evenly sprinkle grated Parmesan over the mixture.

10. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes until golden, bubbling, and set in the center.

11. Prepare salad: While baking, toss cucumber, red onion, Ramiro pepper, spring onions, tomato, salt, pepper, and olive oil.

12. Serve: Let bake rest 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm with the fresh salad.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: ~420 kcal

• Protein: ~25 g

• Fat: ~25 g

• Carbohydrates: ~25 g

• Fiber: ~3 g

• Sodium: ~630 mg

• Calcium & iron: Moderate amounts

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This layered casserole draws inspiration from European gratins and American-style lasagna: layering starchy base, rich meat filling, and cheese. Incorporating spinach and a fresh salad side reflects a modern, balanced approach. Such bakes are beloved for their ease, comfort, and adaptability.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Combines protein, starch, and veggies in one dish

• Gooey center with crisp edges satisfies all textures

• Cheesy, comforting, and family-friendly

• Perfect for busy nights or make-ahead meals

• Salad adds freshness and color for a full meal

Health Benefits

• Potatoes offer potassium and fiber

• Ground beef provides protein, iron, and B vitamins

• Spinach packs vitamins A, C, and folate

• Onions & garlic contribute antioxidants and immune support

• Olive oil adds healthy fats in the salad

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread

• Pair with fruit or a light soup for brunch

• Enjoy leftovers as a lunch reheated in the oven or air fryer

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t skip sautéing beef—raw meat needs to fully cook

• Don’t overcrowd slices—ensure even cheese melt

• Don’t pour egg mixture too hot—it helps set evenly

• Don’t slice immediately—resting ensures neat cuts

Pairing Recommendations

• Beverage: Chardonnay, Merlot, iced herbal tea

• Sides: Caesar salad or roasted steamed vegetables

• Sauce: Serve with garlic aioli or tzatziki on the side

Cooking Tips

• Cook well-seasoned beef—use salt and spices early

• Avoid soggy texture by draining oil from beef mixture

• Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan for an even golden top

• Add grated carrot or zucchini under layers for more veggies

Similar Recipes to Try

• Greek moussaka

• Shepherd’s pie with mashed potatoes

• Cheesy spinach–beef lasagna

• Potato & zucchini gratin

Variations to Try

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version

• Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard

• Make it vegetarian—use lentils instead of meat

• Switch cheeses—feta and provolone or pepper jack

Ingredient Spotlight

Potatoes
Starchy potatoes are an excellent base layer—they absorb flavor and hold texture without turning mushy.

Spinach
A leafy green jackpot: high in vitamins, iron, and antioxidants, and it blends seamlessly into savory bakes.

Parmesan Cheese
A sharp, aged cheese that provides golden color and nutty flavor with minimal quantity needed.

Breadcrumbs
A simple crunch provider—create a balanced texture and absorb moisture to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Potato, Beef & Spinach Bake is a satisfying, all-in-one comfort meal perfect for any season. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, nutritious spinach, and melted cheese, it brings warmth and flavor in every bite. The crisp, fresh salad balances the richness, delivering a refreshingly complete plate. Whether for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole is destined to become a favorite.

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes—thaw, drain completely, then add after sautéing the beef.

2. Can I make it ahead?
   Assemble cold, refrigerate overnight, then bake next day.

3. Is this gluten-free?
   Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed oats.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes—freeze in portions, thaw overnight, and reheat in oven.

5. Can I skip breadcrumbs?
   Yes, but you’ll lose the crispy top. Mix extra Parmesan as substitute.

6. What cheese alternatives?
   Gouda, Monterey Jack, or feta works well.

7. How to make it spicier?
   Add chili powder or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.

8. Can I bake individual portions?
   Yes—use ramekins, bake 20 minutes at 180 °C.

9. How do I prevent the bake from being greasy?
   Drain excess fat after browning beef and skip extra butter.

10. Can I double it?
    Yes—use larger pan and increase bake time by about 10 minutes.