This casserole is filling, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights or meal prep. It’s loaded with protein from the beef, balanced with nutritious broccoli, and topped with melty cheese for that irresistible comfort food feel. It’s easy to customize and great for feeding a family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.) ground beef broccoli florets olive oil onion, chopped garlic, minced salt black pepper paprika cream cheese milk or heavy cream cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) Parmesan cheese (optional) breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender, then set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and milk (or cream), mixing until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked broccoli and mix everything together until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella if using. Sprinkle with Parmesan and breadcrumbs for extra texture if desired.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 servings Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add cooked rice or pasta to make it even more filling. Include mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables. Swap cheddar with a spicy cheese like pepper jack. Make it low-carb by skipping breadcrumbs and adding extra broccoli.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in portions. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before using.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before baking.
How do I keep it from being watery?
Make sure the broccoli is well-drained and avoid adding too much liquid.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella or Parmesan.
Can I make it keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s already low in carbs if you skip breadcrumbs.
Can I add pasta?
Yes, cooked pasta can be mixed in for a heartier version.
What can I serve with this?
A simple salad or garlic bread pairs well.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even sausage works.
How do I make it extra cheesy?
Add more cheese on top or mix extra into the casserole.
Conclusion
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a rich, satisfying meal that brings together hearty beef, nutritious broccoli, and creamy melted cheese. It’s an easy, versatile dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a comforting and filling recipe.
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed comfort food dish made with seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. This easy casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family with a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Ground beef
Broccoli florets
Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Cream cheese
Milk or heavy cream
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Mozzarella cheese (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender, then drain well and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and milk (or cream) until smooth and creamy.
Add broccoli and mix until well combined.
Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with cheddar cheese and mozzarella if using. Sprinkle Parmesan and breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Drain broccoli well to avoid excess moisture.Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.Add extra cheese inside the mixture for a creamier texture.Let casserole rest before serving for better structure.
