Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 4 oz cream cheese (or 1/2 cup sour cream); 1/2 cup milk or cream; 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika or Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping); 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate all-in-one comfort meal. It’s hearty, creamy, packed with protein, and full of cheesy goodness — perfect for a satisfying family dinner. This baked casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli florets, and a cheesy sauce all layered together for a deliciously simple dish that’s both filling and flavorful.

What makes this casserole a standout is its versatility and convenience. It’s great for busy weeknights, freezer meal prep, or a dish to bring to potlucks. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get everyone (even picky eaters) to enjoy their veggies. With minimal prep and ingredients you probably already have on hand, this comforting bake is a dinner win.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with everyday ingredients.
A full meal in one dish — protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness.
Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved.
Great for meal prep — leftovers reheat beautifully.
Customizable with different add-ins or cheeses.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cream cheese or sour cream
Milk or cream
Cooked rice or pasta (optional base)
Salt and pepper
Paprika or Italian seasoning
Olive oil or butter
Shredded mozzarella (optional topping)
Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)

Variations

Low-carb: Skip the rice/pasta and focus on just beef and broccoli.
Add grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber.
Swap proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Creamy upgrade: Mix in a can of cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat oil and cook chopped onions until soft. Add ground beef and garlic, season with salt, pepper, and seasoning of choice. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

Lightly steam broccoli until bright green and just tender (about 3–4 minutes). If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, combine cream cheese (or sour cream), milk, and half of the shredded cheddar over medium heat. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine

In a large bowl or the skillet, mix ground beef, broccoli, cooked rice or pasta (if using), and the cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Top

Transfer mixture to the casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar and optional mozzarella. Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden, cheesy top.

Step 8: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the broccoli — it’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Use a mix of cheeses for more flavor depth (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda).
To save time, cook rice or pasta while prepping other ingredients.
For extra richness, stir in a dollop of sour cream or mayo.
Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner servings.

How to Serve

Serve hot on its own or with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s filling enough to stand alone but pairs well with light, fresh sides to balance the richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze before or after baking in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the full dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it looks dry.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before mixing into the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole without rice or pasta?

Absolutely — it’s still hearty and filling with just beef and broccoli.

3. What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend works well too.

4. How do I make this spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes to the beef.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

6. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a can of condensed cream soup are good alternatives.

7. Can I make it vegetarian?

Use meatless crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini instead of beef.

8. How do I avoid watery casserole?

Make sure to drain broccoli and meat well, and don’t overuse watery vegetables.

9. Can I add eggs to make it more firm?

Yes — mix in 1–2 beaten eggs to help bind the casserole, especially if skipping rice.

10. Can I use a different protein?

Yes — try ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even tofu.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, weeknight hero of a dish — warm, hearty, cheesy, and comforting. It’s a great way to stretch simple ingredients into a delicious meal the whole family will devour. Easy to prep, easy to customize, and easy to love — this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.