Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful blend of hearty ground beef, nutritious broccoli, and creamy alfredo sauce, all baked to perfection in one comforting dish. This recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb versions, everyone can indulge in this delicious comfort food.
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
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, steamed broccoli, jarred alfredo sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Layer Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Broccoli Texture: For a softer broccoli texture, you can steam the florets for a few extra minutes before adding them to the casserole.
- Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables or ingredients to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked pasta for a heartier dish.
- Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can add more alfredo sauce or mix in a dollop of sour cream before baking.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake it when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Simply steam the fresh broccoli until it’s tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I use homemade alfredo sauce instead of jarred? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use homemade alfredo sauce if you prefer. Just make sure it’s creamy and well-seasoned before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How can I make this casserole keto-friendly? A: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, ensure the alfredo sauce and shredded cheeses are low in carbs or keto-friendly. You can also reduce the amount of onions used to lower the carb content.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Use keto-friendly alfredo sauce and shredded cheeses. Adjust the amount of onions to suit your carb limit.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of onions used or omit them altogether. Ensure the alfredo sauce and shredded cheeses are low in carbs.
Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its blend of tender broccoli, savory ground beef, and creamy alfredo sauce, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re following a keto diet, watching your carb intake, or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy dinner, this casserole has you covered. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your meal rotation!
