Broccoli And Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, cheesy rice, and creamy mushroom soup, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet, stirring until ground beef is crumbly; drain excess fat.
- Cook frozen chopped broccoli according to package directions; drain well.
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Layer cooked ground beef, cooked rice, the soup mixture, broccoli, and shredded Cheddar cheese in a baking dish, 1/2 at a time.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot with sides like ambrosia, rolls, and iced tea.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, or incorporate some Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh broccoli with steamed fresh broccoli. For a lighter version, ground turkey can be a great alternative to ground beef. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, especially if you're serving kids.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with sides like ambrosia salad or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a refreshing contrast, serve with iced tea or a light green salad. You can also add some shredded Cheddar cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish. It's a comforting dish that works well for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on medium power until warm. Make sure to cover the dish to retain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 451 calories, with 16g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it lightly until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh broccoli will also give a vibrant color and nutritional boost to the casserole.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of milk in the soup mixture for added flavor. This will keep the casserole hearty and satisfying while catering to vegetarian diets.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking it, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes it easy to prepare ahead for busy nights or gatherings.
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).