Are you looking for an easy, tasty, and filling dinner idea? Look no further than this Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole! It's perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. The combo of beef and broccoli is classic, and putting it all in a casserole just makes it even better.
You'll only need a few simple ingredients, and you can even prepare it ahead of time. Just put it in the oven when you're ready, and enjoy a hot, homemade meal without the fuss. It's a win-win for everyone!
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this casserole is all about convenience and simplicity. You'll only need one casserole dish, and you can find all the ingredients at your local grocery store. It's also very forgiving; if you don't have exactly the right amount of something, it's not a big deal. Plus, the prep work is minimal. You just brown the beef, cook the broccoli a bit, mix in some cheese and seasoning, and throw it in the oven. No complicated steps or techniques needed!
Secondly, it's incredibly flavorful. The ground beef brings a rich, hearty taste while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture. When you combine these with the creamy, melted cheese and the aromatic spices, you get a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that both kids and adults love, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Ground Beef - It’s the star of the dish, providing protein and flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Broccoli - Provides vitamins and a crunchy texture. Frozen broccoli works too.
Cheddar Cheese - This gives a creamy, cheesy flavor. You can use mozzarella for a milder taste.
Rice - Adds body to the casserole. Quinoa is a healthy alternative.
Cream of Mushroom Soup - Helps bind everything and adds creaminess. For a homemade option, try a simple white sauce made with flour, milk, and butter.
Tips
- For better flavor, season the ground beef well while cooking.
- You can pre-cook the broccoli a little if you want it softer in the casserole.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture.
- Feel free to add other spices or herbs to suit your taste, like garlic powder or oregano.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead and frozen. Just bake for a bit longer if cooking from frozen.
How to Serve
This ground beef and broccoli casserole is a complete meal on its own, covering your bases with protein, vegetables, and grains. It pairs well with a simple green salad for added freshness.
- Dinner Party: Elevate the meal with some garlic bread and a fine wine.
- Kid-Friendly: Serve with apple slices or some other easy-to-eat fruit.
- Comfort Meal: A bowl of this casserole with a dollop of sour cream can make for a hearty winter meal.
Similar Recipes
Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large head of broccoli cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until brown. Drain off excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook until slightly tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, broccoli, cooked rice, shredded cheese, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Nutrition
Notes
- For better flavor, season the ground beef well while cooking.
- You can pre-cook the broccoli a little if you want it softer in the casserole.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture.
- Feel free to add other spices or herbs to suit your taste, like garlic powder or oregano.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead and frozen. Just bake for a bit longer if cooking from frozen.