This Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines tender ground beef with fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce, all topped with cheese. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, providing both protein and vegetables in one dish.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in under an hour. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or additional vegetables.
Overview of Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole
The Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the freshness of broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. This casserole is not only satisfying but also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a quick yet nutritious dinner option. The layers of flavor and texture create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients That Make It Special
This casserole features a variety of ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor profile. Ground beef serves as the protein base, while fresh or frozen broccoli adds a vibrant green color and essential nutrients.
Complementing these main components is a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup and milk, which binds everything together. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, the casserole becomes a bubbly, golden delight that is hard to resist.
Preparation Steps to Follow
To create this delicious casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, seasoning it with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
Next, prepare the broccoli by steaming it until tender, or if using frozen, ensure it is thawed and drained. Combine the cooked beef, broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk in a large bowl, mixing until well combined.
Assembling the Casserole
Once your ingredients are ready, pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. The assembly is straightforward, and the colorful layers will make your casserole visually appealing.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, ensuring every bite will be cheesy and delicious. This final touch is what makes the casserole truly irresistible.
Baking to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; the goal is to achieve a bubbly and golden cheese topping.
Once done, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a hearty meal that is sure to please.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
The Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole can be served on its own or paired with a simple side salad for a complete meal. For those looking to customize the dish, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings to make the casserole your own. This flexibility allows you to adapt the recipe to suit your family’s preferences, ensuring that it remains a favorite for years to come.
Simple Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole
This casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef and steamed broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese. The dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam it until tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain any excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g