Irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole 🥦🧀🍲 That’ll Win Everyone Over

Introduction

The Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a Cozy Comfort Food Classic That’s Fast, Easy, and Full of Flavor

Craving something warm, cheesy, and filling—but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is your weeknight hero. 🦸‍♂️ Whether you’re juggling work, homework, or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, this dish delivers comfort food goodness in under 30 minutes. It combines savory ground beef, fresh broccoli, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce baked to golden perfection.

This casserole is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the protein, sneak in extra veggies, or go gluten-free with ease. Busy families, picky eaters, and casserole lovers alike will devour this one—and ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Uses budget-friendly pantry staples
✅ Kid-friendly, picky-eater approved
✅ Great for meal prep or leftovers
✅ Easily customizable (think bacon, chicken, extra veggies!)
✅ Freezer-friendly for busy nights

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped small)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts better!)
• Optional: ¼ tsp ground mustard or dash of nutmeg for extra flavor

💡 Pro Tip: If using frozen broccoli, steam it for 3–4 minutes and drain well before adding to the casserole to avoid watery results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic. Sauté with the beef until softened and fragrant (2–3 minutes).
4. Stir in broccoli, rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together and remove from heat.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Slowly whisk in milk and simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
7. Add shredded cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
8. Pour the cheese sauce over the beef-broccoli mixture. Stir to combine.
9. Transfer everything to the casserole dish and top with extra cheese if desired.
10. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage:

• 🧊 Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• ❄️ Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• 🔥 Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Variations:

• 🥓 Add crisp bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms.
• 🧅 Mix in caramelized onions for sweetness.
• 🧄 For a kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat
450	22g	30g	28g

⚠️ Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use gluten-free flour and pasta?
✅ Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour for the roux and sub the rice with GF pasta if preferred.

❓ Why is my sauce clumpy?
❌ It’s likely due to skipping constant whisking or using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. Stick to freshly grated cheese and stir continuously.

❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
✅ Yes! Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese substitutes. Many brands now offer meltable vegan cheeses that work great.

❓ Can I add more vegetables?
✅ For sure! Toss in peas, spinach, carrots, or even zucchini—just make sure to cook or steam them slightly first.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✅ Yes, assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is the definition of comfort food made easy. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a satisfying dish to please the whole family, this casserole checks all the boxes. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty ingredients—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

🍽️ Try it tonight and share your creations by tagging us on Pinterest @Infinity Recipes !

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