Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Okay, so you know how everyone loves a good lasagna? Layers of cheesy goodness, hearty meat sauce…pure comfort food. Well, this **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** is like lasagna’s equally delicious, even easier, and *slightly* healthier cousin. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that’s been passed down in my family for ages, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I remember my grandma used to make it every other week, and the whole house would smell amazing. The aroma of the beef with the broccoli and cheese, you just knew it was going to be a good night. This particular version has a few tweaks I’ve made over the years – a little less salt here, a touch more garlic there – but the heart of it is still that same warm, satisfying casserole I grew up with. And honestly, on busy weeknights when you just want something comforting and easy? This is a lifesaver.

What is ground beef and broccoli casserole?

Think of **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** as the ultimate weeknight dinner shortcut. It’s essentially a hearty mix of ground beef, tender broccoli florets, a creamy cheese sauce, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s incredibly versatile, too. You can swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack if you’re feeling fancy, or add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. The name pretty much says it all! It’s a casserole, it has ground beef, and it definitely features broccoli. No surprises, just pure, unadulterated comfort food goodness. It’s the kind of dish that everyone in the family, even the picky eaters, will happily dig into. I always make extra because leftovers are amazing the next day!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I begin? This **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** is just…perfect.Flavor explosion: WhatThe savory ground beef blends beautifully with the slightly sweet broccoli, and the creamy cheese. What is a sauce that ties everything together in symphony? Is there a flavor profile that works for everyone?Simple as can be: a simple premise.Is it necessary to be a culinary genius to whip up this dish? Is this one of the easiest recipes in my repertoire? I’ve even taught my teenage nephew how to make it, and he nails it every time.WalletBoth ground beef and broccoli are relatively inexpensive, especially when you buy them in bulk. What are some things you already have in your pantry?What are some of theWhat are some good side dishes to serve as a main course? It travels well and reheats beautifully. I’ve even been known to sneak a spoonful of cold right out of the fridge (don’t judge me)! What I love most about this is how comforting it is. It’s like a warm hug on the plate. It reminds me of my childhood, and it always puts a smile on my face. If you like classics like shepherd’s pie or tuna noodle casserole, this will become a new go-to. Is this a good one to do?

How do you make ground beef and broccoli casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** is surprisingly simple. Basically, you’ll brown some ground beef, cook the broccoli, whip up a quick cheese sauce, combine everything, and bake until bubbly and golden. Sounds easy, right? That’s because it IS! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly forgiving. Don’t worry about being precise with measurements or following the instructions to the letter. Just relax, have fun, and enjoy the process. The result will be a delicious and satisfying casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Broccoli Base:
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
* 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil

What is Creamy Cheese Sauce?
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2% work best, but I’ve used almond milk in a pinch!)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
* 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium, your preference)

What are the steps of

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. What should I do if I want my casserole to stick to the bottom? I usually use cooking spray, but you could also grease it with butter or oil. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef. What are some ways to break up a casserole with your spoon? Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. What is the best way to add depth of flavor to beef?

Step 3: Season the Beef

Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. What are some simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of beef and vegetables? I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my salad. I’m feeling adventurous. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. You want the broccoli to be slightly tender but still have a little bite to it. Why is broccoli overcooked?

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Be patient, this part takes a little while. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. That’s the magic right there!

Step 6: Combine Everything

In the prepared baking dish, combine the browned ground beef mixture and the cooked broccoli. How do you spread the cheese sauce on top? Where does the magic happen? Gently stir to combine everything. What makes a good bite of potato packed with flavor?

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. Is it melted and lightly golden brown? What are the best ovens to keep an eye on, as they vary in size. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I make cheese sauce easier to slice?

What should I serve it with?

This **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

For a simple weeknight dinner: Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the casserole.

For a more elaborate meal: Try serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes. Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts would be delicious.

For a potluck or party: Bring a big pan of this casserole along with some rolls and a dessert. It’s always a hit!

My family loves it with a side of garlic bread. It’s the perfect way to soak up all that delicious cheese sauce. And for dessert? A simple fruit salad or some chocolate chip cookies are always a good choice.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Okay, so I’ve made this **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** more times than I can count, and I’ve learned a few things along the way. Here are my top tips for making it absolutely perfect:

Don’t overcook the broccoli: You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Nobody likes mushy broccoli!

Use good quality cheese: The cheese is a key component of this casserole, so don’t skimp on quality. I prefer sharp cheddar, but you can use whatever kind you like.

Don’t be afraid to experiment: This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Try adding some mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a can of diced tomatoes.

Make it ahead of time: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Just cover it with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Add a crunchy topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top of the casserole before baking. I like to use Ritz crackers, but you could also use Panko breadcrumbs. Toss the breadcrumbs in some melted butter and garlic powder for even more flavor!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** is great for meal prepping!

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave it out for more than a couple of hours, especially if it’s warm. Bacteria loves that stuff!

Refrigerator Storage: You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. It reheats beautifully!

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: You can reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave. In the oven, bake it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. In the microwave, heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. I usually add a little bit of milk or water when reheating to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the cheese sauce. Make sure it’s a blend that’s designed to be a 1:1 replacement for regular flour. The texture might be slightly different – sometimes gluten-free sauces can be a bit grainier – but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Do I need to peel the broccoli?

Nope, no need to peel the broccoli stems! Just trim off the very end. The stems are perfectly edible and add a nice bit of crunch. If you’re not a fan of the texture, you can peel them, but I usually just leave them as is. It saves time, and it’s less waste!

Can I make this as individual servings instead?

You sure can! Just divide the mixture into muffin tins or small ramekins before baking. Reduce the baking time to about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is a great way to control portion sizes and make it easier to pack for lunches.

How can I add more vegetables?

Go wild! This casserole is very forgiving. You could add some chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just add them to the skillet with the onion and garlic and cook until softened before adding the ground beef.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess water before adding it to the skillet. I find that frozen broccoli can sometimes be a little mushier than fresh, so I recommend cooking it for a shorter amount of time.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my family’s favorite **Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole** recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit. It’s one of those recipes that I know I can always rely on to bring a smile to everyone’s face. The warm, cheesy flavors are just so comforting, and it’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet. It’s a great twist on the classic beef casserole. If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try my chicken and rice casserole recipe? I hope you love this recipe as much as we do. Happy cooking!

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