Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

After a long day, the last thing anyone wants is a complicated, time-consuming dinner. That’s where this Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake comes to the rescue! In my household, weeknight dinners need to be quick, satisfying, and, most importantly, something everyone will actually eat – even the picky eaters. This recipe has become an absolute staple in our rotation. The combination of savory ground beef, tender broccoli florets, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection, is simply irresistible. Even my kids, who are usually skeptical of anything green, happily devour this dish. It’s comfort food at its finest, but with the added bonus of sneaking in some veggies. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to throw together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual weekend gathering. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free meal that delivers on flavor and satisfaction, look no further – this Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

• 1 pound Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for a balance of flavor and less grease. Browning the beef is key to developing rich, savory notes in the dish.
• 1 large Onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works best, adding a foundational savory flavor to the beef mixture. Diced onions soften and sweeten as they cook, complementing the beef and cheese.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is crucial for adding a pungent and aromatic layer to the dish. Mince it finely to release its flavor fully and prevent large pieces from overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: This herb provides a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes of the beef and cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning the beef and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste depending on your preference and the saltiness of your cheese.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Ground black pepper adds a subtle spicy kick and depth of flavor to balance the richness of the cheese and beef.
• 3 cups Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli florets are recommended for their texture and fresh taste. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating. Frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained well, can be used as a convenient substitute.
• 4 tablespoons Butter, unsalted: Butter contributes richness and flavor to the cheese sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce.
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour: Flour acts as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• 3 cups Milk: Whole milk provides the richest and creamiest sauce, but 2% milk can also be used for a slightly lighter option.
• 4 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its bold flavor that stands up well in the bake. You can use a blend of cheddar and other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for varied flavor profiles. Pre-shredded or freshly shredded cheese both work well.
• 1/2 cup Bread crumbs (optional): Panko bread crumbs provide a crispy topping when sprinkled over the bake before baking. They add a pleasant textural contrast to the creamy casserole. Regular breadcrumbs can also be used.

Instructions for Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you place the casserole in, allowing for even baking. While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the bottom and sides of the dish, making serving and cleanup easier. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, place the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break up the beef with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Browning the beef is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor that forms the base of the dish. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet after browning to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. Sautéing the onions softens them and brings out their sweetness, adding another layer of flavor to the dish. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Cooking the garlic briefly releases its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the beef mixture.
4. Season the Beef Mixture: Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper into the beef and onion mixture. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed to flavor the beef throughout. These seasonings enhance the savory profile of the dish and complement the cheese and broccoli. Cook for another minute to allow the herbs to bloom and release their full flavor.
5. Prepare the Broccoli: While the beef is cooking, prepare the broccoli florets. If using fresh broccoli, wash and cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can steam, boil, or microwave the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and retain their bright green color. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and drain off any excess water. Tender-crisp broccoli will maintain some texture in the bake and prevent it from becoming mushy.
6. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This roux is the base for your cheese sauce and will thicken the milk. Cooking the roux slightly removes the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken. This process prevents lumps from forming and ensures a creamy sauce.
7. Melt in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. Stir continuously to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Taste the cheese sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the bottom. Arrange the tender-crisp broccoli florets over the beef. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli and beef, ensuring everything is well coated.
9. Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): If using bread crumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the cheese sauce. This will create a golden and crispy crust during baking. Gently press the breadcrumbs into the cheese sauce to help them adhere.
10. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the top is golden brown. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs (if used) should be nicely browned and crispy.
11. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Resting also helps to prevent it from being too runny. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake (per serving)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Servings per Recipe: 8 servings (depending on portion sizes)
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. This provides a substantial amount of energy for a satisfying meal.
• Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for muscle building, repair, and satiety, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Fat: Approximately 25-35 grams of fat per serving. This includes fats from the beef, butter, and cheese, contributing to flavor and satiety. Consider using leaner beef and reduced-fat cheese to lower the fat content if desired.

Preparation Time for Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

• Prep Time: 20 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables, browning the beef, and making the cheese sauce. The recipe is designed to be quick and efficient in preparation.
• Cook Time: 25 minutes. This is the baking time in the oven, allowing the casserole to heat through and the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
• Total Time: 45 minutes. From start to finish, this Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake can be on your table in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal solution.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

This versatile casserole can be served in many ways, making it a flexible option for various occasions.

• As a Main Course: Serve generous portions of the Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake as the star of your meal. It’s hearty and satisfying enough to stand alone.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
• Over Rice or Pasta: Serve the bake over a bed of cooked white rice, brown rice, or pasta (like egg noodles or penne) to extend the meal and add extra carbohydrates. This is especially great for heartier appetites.
• With Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious cheese sauce and complementing the savory flavors of the bake.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add even more vegetables to your meal, serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
• As a Potluck Dish: This bake is easily transportable and reheats well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or bringing to friends.

Additional Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother in the sauce and often has a richer flavor due to the absence of cellulose and anti-caking agents.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli is tender-crisp before adding it to the casserole. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy during baking and lose its pleasant texture.
3. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Monterey Jack, Colby, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheddar and Gruyere can all add interesting flavor variations.
4. Add Extra Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or cauliflower florets along with the broccoli for added nutrients and flavor complexity. Sauté them with the onions and beef.
5. Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or cheese sauce. You can also use Pepper Jack cheese or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
6. Make it Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or sour cream. Stir in sour cream at the very end, off the heat, to prevent curdling.
7. Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
8. Freeze for Later: Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, potentially adding extra baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli. Make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent the bake from becoming watery.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground beef substitute or lentils. You could also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to make it a hearty vegetarian casserole.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination.

Q4: How do I prevent the cheese sauce from being grainy?
A: Ensure you whisk the roux (butter and flour) well and cook it for a minute or two before adding the milk. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly and cook over medium-low heat. Stir in the cheese slowly and melt it gently over low heat. Avoid boiling the cheese sauce, as this can cause it to separate and become grainy.

Q5: Can I add a topping other than breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can use crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines), potato chips, or even fried onions as a topping for added texture and flavor. You can also skip the topping altogether if you prefer.

Q6: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Cheesy Beef & Broccoli Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q7: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping (or omit the topping). You can also substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, use about 2 tablespoons and make a slurry with cold milk before adding it to the sauce.

Q8: What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole besides salad?
A: Besides salad, consider serving this casserole with roasted root vegetables, steamed green beans, mashed potatoes, or a simple side of fruit for a balanced meal.

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