Broccoli Burger Bake
A cheesy broccoli burger bake combining ground beef, macaroni, and vegetables topped with croutons, perfect for a hearty family dinner with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F.
- Cook macaroni in 6 cups salted water (4 teaspoons salt) for 8 minutes and drain.
- Cook and stir ground beef until light brown, then drain.
- Mix beef, macaroni, sauce mix, broccoli, water, walnuts, parsley, salt, and garlic powder in an ungreased, 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with seasoned croutons on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. If you don’t have croutons, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work as a great topping. Adding spices like paprika or chili powder can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Burger Bake with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Kay'S Version Of Cabbage Rolls for a hearty family dinner. For a fun twist, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat on medium power in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Burger Bake contains roughly 649 calories, with 31g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 11g 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, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just chop it into small pieces and blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. Ensure you season well to compensate for the flavor difference, and consider adding additional vegetables for texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving to give each portion an extra kick.
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).