Rita’s Spinach Casserole

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 14

Rita's Spinach Casserole is a cheesy and creamy pasta dish with a healthy twist

by The Chefin Pasta

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Ready In

60 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

6-8

Calories

528

Sugar

Fat

28g

Rita's Spinach Casserole is a tasty and nutritious pasta dish that will satisfy your cravings for something creamy and cheesy without sacrificing your health goals. The whole wheat pasta provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, while the ground beef and spinach add protein and vitamins. The sour cream and mozzarella cheese make this dish rich and satisfying, while the thyme adds a subtle herb flavor that compliments the other ingredients. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast and easy meal that can be made in under an hour.

Instructions

1.	Cook the farfalle pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside.
2.	In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain off any excess grease.
3.	Add tomato sauce, sour cream, thyme, and spinach to the skillet, mix well.
4.	Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and layer half of the cooked pasta in the bottom, followed by half of the beef mixture.
5.	Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and beef mixture, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6.	Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes.
7.	Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

PROS

This dish is packed with protein and nutrients from the ground beef, spinach, and whole wheat pasta.

It is a fast and easy weeknight meal that can be made in under an hour, and it makes a great leftover lunch the next day.

CONS

The sour cream and cheese in this recipe make it higher in calories and saturated fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

It may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or with certain health conditions that require a low-fat or low-calorie diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Ground beef is a good source of protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12, and spinach contains vitamins A and C, calcium and fiber.
Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative to refined white pasta, providing more fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates that help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.

	1 pound ground beef
	1 can tomato sauce
	1 cup sour cream
	1 teaspoon dried thyme
	3 1/2 cups farfalle ( bow tie ) pasta , uncooked
	1 package frozen chopped spinach , thawed and drained
	1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese