This Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole combines hearty ingredients into a comforting and savory dish. Featuring lean ground beef, tender broccoli, and a creamy Alfredo sauce topped with a generous amount of cheese, this casserole is perfect for a filling family dinner that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 16 oz jarred Alfredo sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the casserole cooks through evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes then drain well. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet along with the jarred Alfredo sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly and heat through.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and broccoli mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
Conclusion:
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the comfort of cheese and Alfredo with nutritious broccoli and protein-rich beef. It’s an ideal recipe for a busy weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd. The flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy this easy-to-make casserole any night of the week!