Beef Broccoli Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, broccoli, rice, and creamy cheese for a comforting, family-friendly meal with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef; drain.
- Cook broccoli and rice.
- Melt Velveeta cheese.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Bake 15 minutes at 350°F or until the casserole is not very runny.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if desired. If you don't have Velveeta, use any melty cheese like cheddar. Cook the broccoli until just tender to avoid overcooking during baking. This dish is similar in concept to a Hamburger Surprise Muffins for an easy meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Broccoli Casserole is hearty enough to be served alone, but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for added sides. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside a Skillet Steak Dinner for a complete beef experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 479 calories, with 17g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1565mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to avoid a watery dish. This will help maintain the desired texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute. Alternatively, you could make a homemade version using a roux with vegetable broth and seasonings for a fresher taste.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).