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Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

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Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights: the Cheesy Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole. This rich, low-carb, and incredibly satisfying dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender florets of fresh broccoli, a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, and a generous blanket of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole delivers maximum flavor while keeping things simple and wholesome. Whether you are following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that comes together effortlessly, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 45 minutes

  • Servings: 6 generous servings

  • Intensity Level: Easy / Beginner-Friendly

  • Cuisine: American Comfort / Low-Carb Keto Fusion

Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking dish

  • Large skillet or frying pan

  • Medium saucepan

  • Whisk

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef

  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt (divided)

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Rich Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed

  • 1.5 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

  • 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, adds a subtle depth of flavor)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

  2. Wash your fresh broccoli florets thoroughly and cut them into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

  2. Add the minced garlic and lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink (about 6 to 8 minutes).

  3. Season the beef mixture with half of the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Drain any excess grease if necessary, then transfer the seasoned beef directly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

  1. Place the broccoli florets into a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp. Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes.

  2. Drain any excess water completely and scatter the steamed broccoli evenly over the layer of ground beef in the baking dish.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

  2. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

  3. Whisk in the softened cubes of cream cheese, stirring continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and thickened.

  4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until melted and luxurious. Season with the remaining salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

  1. Pour the rich, velvety cheese sauce evenly over the ground beef and broccoli layer in the baking dish, ensuring everything is well coated.

  2. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top to create a gorgeous, cheesy crust.

  3. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted, golden-brown, and slightly crisp at the edges.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the creamy sauce to settle so you can scoop out clean, picture-perfect portions.

Pro Chef Tips for Success

  • Shred Your Own Cheese: For the ultimate melted pull and richest flavor, avoid pre-bagged shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking starches. Grating a block of sharp cheddar and mozzarella fresh makes a massive difference in texture.

  • Keep Broccoli Crisp-Tender: Do not overcook your broccoli during the steaming phase. It will continue to cook slightly while baking in the oven, and keeping it crisp-tender prevents the casserole from becoming watery.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 540 kcal

  • Protein: 36 g

  • Carbohydrates: 7 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Net Carbs: 5 g

  • Fat: 42 g

  • Saturated Fat: 22 g

  • Sodium: 740 mg

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