Dad'S Broccoli And Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender broccoli, savory ground beef, rice, and cheesy topping, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until just tender; drain.
- Fry ground beef until well done; rinse with hot water and drain again.
- Add instant rice, oregano, and onion powder to the beef; stir until well mixed.
- Layer half of the cooked broccoli in the bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer half of the beef and rice mixture over the broccoli.
- Add half of the cottage cheese over the beef and rice layer.
- Repeat with remaining broccoli, beef and rice.
- Spread the cream of mushroom soup over the top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the soup.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic and onion with the ground beef. You can substitute the instant rice with cooked quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist. If you're short on time, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. This casserole is adaptable, so feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance the nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier side, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Broccoli And Beef Casserole contains roughly 653 calories, with 24g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), and calcium (140% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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 other meats in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative to beef, providing a lighter option while still delivering on protein. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken if you're looking for a quicker prep time. Just be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary depending on the meat used.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble all the layers in the casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly. This makes it a convenient option for busy nights.
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).