Ground beef and broccoli casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines protein-packed beef, nutritious broccoli, and rich, cheesy goodness. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a balanced meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a blend of savory spices and a cheesy topping, this casserole will quickly become a household staple.
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 14-ounce can tomato sauce
- 6 cups small broccoli florets
- 1.75 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1.5 teaspoons table salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to crumble and separate it as it continues to cook. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Tomato Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomato sauce to the cooked beef. Stir to combine, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- While the beef is simmering, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with tomato sauce, broccoli florets, finely chopped celery, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, table salt, garlic powder, and ground cayenne. Stir thoroughly to achieve an even blend of all the ingredients throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Carefully pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it is spread evenly across the surface. Sprinkle the remaining 0.75 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the finely grated parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to blend harmoniously and simplifies the serving process. Dish out portions onto plates and enjoy your hearty ground beef and broccoli casserole.
Conclusion
This ground beef and broccoli casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its simple preparation and delicious blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this casserole offers a balanced and satisfying meal that’s easy to love. Enjoy the savory taste and wholesome goodness of this delightful casserole!