Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a comfort food classic that’s both hearty and wholesome, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole will become your go-to dinner. It combines tender ground beef with vibrant broccoli, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that warms you up inside. This recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, filling, and family-friendly. The blend of savory meat, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering harmony that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: You can prepare this casserole in under an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich ground beef and nutrient-dense broccoli, it’s a balanced family meal.
• Comfort Food Perfected: The creamy, cheesy sauce adds that rich texture everyone craves after a long day.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this blend of flavors and textures, especially with the cheesy topping.
• Great Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is simple but packs a punch in taste and texture. From fresh broccoli for color and crunch to rich cheddar cheese for flavor depth, these staples come together to create a satisfying dish you’ll want to repeat.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean beef for a juicy, meaty base without too much grease.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works fine—provides color, crunch, and nutrients.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold, melty cheesiness that defines the casserole.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang to balance flavors.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: The classic creamy binder that holds everything together.
• Onion and Garlic: For aromatic, savory depth.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika elevate the overall flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, for a crunchy topping that contrasts with creamy layers.

Variations for Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more veggies, swap the meat, or make it lighter, the possibilities are endless.

• Swap Ground Beef for Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option.
• Add Cauliflower: Mix in cauliflower florets for extra vegetables and a subtle flavor lift.
• Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream: For a tangy, protein-packed creaminess with fewer calories.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets and finely dicing the onion and garlic. This helps ensure even cooking and a balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. This builds a wonderful aromatic base for the casserole.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

Lightly steam the broccoli florets until just tender but still crisp. Overcooked broccoli can get mushy in the casserole, so aim for a bright green and firm texture.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, steamed broccoli, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, then mix well to evenly coat everything.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

• Drain the Meat Well: Removes excess grease for a cleaner, more balanced flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Keeps a nice texture and vibrant color in your casserole.
• Use Sharp Cheddar: It melts beautifully and gives the dish a richer taste.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheese for a healthier twist.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top adds a fresh pop of color and a slight herbal brightness that complements the creamy casserole beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole and add extra nutrients to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, or layer the casserole with mashed potatoes on top for a homemade shepherd’s pie twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well and tastes fantastic the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave on medium power in short bursts to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient and nutritious option; just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the casserole.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cheese?

You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version.

What is the best cheese to use for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for its melting properties and bold flavor, but a blend of mozzarella and cheddar also works well.

How spicy is this casserole?

This recipe is mild by default but can be spiced up with additions like chili flakes or jalapeños if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

If comfort food is what you’re after, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole delivers every time. It’s cozy, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying while being straightforward enough for any home cook. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe part of your weekly dinner rotation – it’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table!

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