Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is an incredibly delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tender ground beef, crispy broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. The balance of textures, flavors, and hearty ingredients will make this dish a new favorite at the dinner table. This article will explore the details of this amazing casserole, including its origin, ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and some variations to make it your own.
What is Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole?
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh broccoli florets, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. It is typically baked until bubbly and golden, creating a dish that offers a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and crispy textures. The addition of brown rice is optional, but it helps to add fiber and makes the casserole heartier.
The key to this casserole’s appeal is its versatility and simplicity. By combining common ingredients like ground beef, broccoli, and cheese, it transforms into something far more special thanks to the thoughtful seasoning and baking technique. Whether you want to make it as a comfort food dish or as part of a meal prep routine, this casserole can suit any occasion.
Origin of Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
While casseroles are a common comfort food in many cultures, the exact origin of Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is difficult to trace. It draws inspiration from classic American casseroles that combine meat, vegetables, and cheese into a single, easy-to-make dish. Casseroles, in general, became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century as a way to make hearty, budget-friendly meals that could serve large families. This particular casserole likely emerged as a modern twist on traditional dishes like broccoli cheese casserole and shepherd’s pie, with a few contemporary touches like the use of ground beef and smoked paprika to elevate the flavors.
Though the precise origins remain unclear, it’s safe to say that Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a beloved variation of a comfort food classic, providing a satisfying and nourishing meal for people of all ages.
Ingredients for Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole (Serves 6)
Main Components:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (85% lean)
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice (optional, for added fiber)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese (regular or reduced-fat)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Topping:
- 1 cup crispy fried onions or ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method Of Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
1. Prep the Broccoli
To retain the broccoli’s bright green color and crisp texture, blanch it before adding it to the casserole. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Afterward, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
- Drain the broccoli thoroughly and set it aside. This step ensures the broccoli stays crisp when baked in the casserole.
2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Add the ground beef and break it into crumbles with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef mixture and return it to the skillet.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture becomes creamy. Once the sauce is smooth, fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Begin layering the casserole:
- First, spread the cooked brown rice (if using) evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Next, layer the cooked ground beef and cheese sauce mixture over the rice.
- Finally, arrange the blanched broccoli florets evenly on top of the beef mixture.
- Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the broccoli.
5. Add the Topping
For the topping, you can choose between crispy fried onions or a crunchy panko breadcrumb mixture. If using fried onions, sprinkle the entire cup over the casserole. For the panko option, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. For an extra crispy top, switch to the broiler setting for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Pro Tips:
- Prevent Sogginess: Make sure the broccoli is thoroughly drained after blanching to avoid any excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Swap the sharp cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier flavor, or add mozzarella for a stretchier, cheesier texture.
- Meal Prep: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling it, covering it with foil, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Variations of Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is highly adaptable, and you can customize it in many ways. Here are some variations you might want to try:
1. Vegetarian Version:
- Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, such as lentils, mushrooms, or a vegetarian ground meat product. This variation will make the casserole suitable for vegetarians while still maintaining its hearty texture.
2. Low-Carb Version:
- Omit the brown rice and use cauliflower rice instead. This will reduce the carbs while still providing a similar texture to rice.
- You can also try using zucchini or spaghetti squash as a base instead of rice for a low-carb alternative.
3. Spicy Version:
- Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese for added heat and flavor.
4. Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken:
- For a lighter variation, replace the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken. This version is great for those who prefer white meat or are looking for a healthier alternative to ground beef.
5. Gluten-Free Version:
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumb topping altogether and use crushed gluten-free crackers or a combination of cheese and nuts for a crunchy topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
1. Can I make Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking as usual.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
While fresh broccoli is preferred for texture, frozen broccoli can be used as well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
3. How can I make the Cheesy Broccoli Beef Casserole spicier?
You can add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese to increase the heat of the casserole.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole. After assembling it, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed.
5. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for the beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to suit the type of meat you use.
Conclusion: Enjoying Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a versatile, hearty, and delicious dish that is sure to satisfy any appetite. The combination of flavorful beef, crispy broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy topping creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special gathering, this casserole will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
By following this recipe and exploring some of the variations, you can customize the dish to fit your dietary preferences or desired flavor profile. With its ease of preparation and balance of ingredients, Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
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Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole: A Savory Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole is a layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh broccoli florets, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. It is typically baked until bubbly and golden, creating a dish that offers a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and crispy textures. The addition of brown rice is optional, but it helps to add fiber and makes the casserole heartier.
Ingredients
Main Components:
-
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (85% lean)
-
6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
-
1½ cups cooked brown rice (optional, for added fiber)
-
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese (regular or reduced-fat)
-
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
1 small onion, diced
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings:
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
Topping:
-
1 cup crispy fried onions or ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1. Prep the Broccoli
To retain the broccoli’s bright green color and crisp texture, blanch it before adding it to the casserole. Here’s how:
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2 minutes.
-
Afterward, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
-
Drain the broccoli thoroughly and set it aside. This step ensures the broccoli stays crisp when baked in the casserole.
2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Add the ground beef and break it into crumbles with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef mixture and return it to the skillet.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture becomes creamy. Once the sauce is smooth, fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Begin layering the casserole:
-
First, spread the cooked brown rice (if using) evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
-
Next, layer the cooked ground beef and cheese sauce mixture over the rice.
-
Finally, arrange the blanched broccoli florets evenly on top of the beef mixture.
-
Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the broccoli.
5. Add the Topping
For the topping, you can choose between crispy fried onions or a crunchy panko breadcrumb mixture. If using fried onions, sprinkle the entire cup over the casserole. For the panko option, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. For an extra crispy top, switch to the broiler setting for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Pro Tips:
-
Prevent Sogginess: Make sure the broccoli is thoroughly drained after blanching to avoid any excess moisture in the casserole.
-
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Swap the sharp cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier flavor, or add mozzarella for a stretchier, cheesier texture.
-
Meal Prep: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling it, covering it with foil, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Notes
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite seasonings or swapping the beef for chicken or turkey. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be made ahead and reheated for busy weeknights. Enjoy the delicious flavors and comfort in every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Loaded Broccoli & Beef Casserole
