INTRODUCTION
Ground Beef and Broccoli Bake is a warm and simple dish. It uses ground beef, tender broccoli, rice, and cheese. You cook the beef and vegetables, mix them with rice and sauce, then bake until the top is golden. This casserole makes a full meal that is easy for weeknights. It fills the house with a nice smell and gives you a plate that is both soft and a little crisp at the edges.
This recipe is simple for cooks of all skill levels. If you like hearty food done with little work, this is a good choice. The recipe is also easy to change. You can swap vegetables or cheese, or use different spices. If you want ideas for other beef meals, try this recipe that is similar in flavor to an easy ground beef bulgogi in how rich the sauce can be.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this bake because it is quick, warm, and filling. It uses common pantry items like rice and broth. The bake gives you protein from the beef, fiber from the broccoli, and comfort from the melted cheese. It is also a one-dish meal. That means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
This dish works for many plans. You can make it for family dinners, pack it for lunches, or bring it to a potluck. It stores well and tastes good the next day. If you want a cheesy pasta side for a special night, you might enjoy a recipe like five cheese baked macaroni and cheese as a partner dish for a gathering.
HOW TO MAKE Ground Beef and Broccoli Bake
Making this bake is a step-by-step process that stays easy and clear. First, you sauté the onion and garlic. Then you brown the ground beef. After that you add the broccoli, rice, and a simple sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend. Finally, put everything into a greased dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbling and golden.
The method keeps each part simple so the full meal comes together quickly. You do not need special skills. Follow the steps and keep an eye on the pan when you brown the beef. If you want a lighter mix, use lean ground beef and low-sodium broth. If you want more flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Medium baking dish (8×8 inches or similar)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula for breaking up beef
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife for onion and broccoli (if using fresh)
- Colander (if you need to drain the beef)
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 pound ground beef, 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, bite-sized), 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste), 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing), Nonstick spray or a little extra oil for greasing the baking dish
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (about 8×8 inches or similar).
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Drain off excess fat if needed.
Stir in the broccoli florets, cooked rice, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine.
Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is crisp-tender and the flavors come together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer the beef and broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, golden around the edges, and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly.
HOW TO SERVE Ground Beef and Broccoli Bake
Serve this bake hot from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes so it firms up and is easier to scoop. Use a spatula to make neat squares or scoops. A small green salad or a side of pickled vegetables adds a fresh contrast. For a heartier meal, add a crusty roll or garlic bread on the side.
If you want to mix up the meal, serve it with a light soup or a bowl of simple steamed vegetables. For a dinner party, plate the bake with a small pile of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. If you like flavors that are richer, try pairing it with a slow-cooked stew such as this hearty beef and vegetable stew on another night for variety.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Ground Beef and Broccoli Bake
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or use the microwave for a quick meal, covering the dish to keep moisture. For longer storage, freeze the bake: cool it fully, wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap and foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
When you want to reheat from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight if you can. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot in the center. If you are short on time, reheat single portions in the microwave from frozen but add a minute or two and check often. If you need more meal ideas for packed lunches, see a different take on beef and cabbage that is healthy and quick like this healthy Chinese ground beef cabbage stir fry.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Add a crisp green salad with lemon dressing to brighten the plate.
- Serve with warm bread or garlic toast for a comforting meal.
- Offer a side of pickles or kimchi for a tangy contrast.
- Top the casserole with fresh chopped parsley for color and mild flavor.
- Add a side of steamed carrots or green beans for extra veg.
VARIATIONS
- Swap the cheddar for mozzarella for a milder, gooier top.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms when you sauté the onions for more flavor.
- Stir in a cup of frozen corn or peas for added sweetness and color.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice to change the texture and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, add a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli without thawing?
A: Yes. Add frozen broccoli right to the skillet. Let it cook a bit longer so it becomes crisp-tender. If it releases extra water, simmer until some liquid cooks off.
Q: Can I make this without rice?
A: Yes. You can skip the rice and add more broccoli or use cooked pasta, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Adjust the broth amount if you skip rice so the mix is not too wet.
Q: How do I make this less salty?
A: Use low-sodium broth and low-sodium soy sauce. Start with half the salt and taste before baking. You can also skip the Worcestershire sauce or use less of it.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, cooked crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs?
A: Yes. Add chopped parsley, chives, or basil after baking for fresh flavor and color.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Ground Beef and Broccoli Bake
You can prepare the filling ahead of time. Cook the beef and mix it with the broccoli, rice, and sauce. Store this filling in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, transfer to the baking dish, add the cheese, and bake as directed. This saves time on busy nights.
If you plan to freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Do not bake first. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as the recipe says. If you only have the frozen bake, you can bake it from frozen but add about 15–25 minutes to the baking time and cover the dish with foil for the first half so the top does not brown too fast.
If you want more make-ahead meal ideas that use beef and bake well, try planning a weekend to make several dishes at once, like savory BBQ pulled beef sandwiches weekend meal, then freeze portions for quick dinners.