CHEESY BROCCOLI AND POTATO BEEF CASSEROLE: A COMFORTING FAMILY FAVORITE

This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with hearty potatoes, savory ground beef, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or as a meal-prep solution, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and convenience.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CASSEROLE

• Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples or easy to find at the store.
• Quick Prep Time: With just a few steps, you’ll have this dish ready for the oven.
• One-Dish Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and starch for a balanced dinner.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this casserole to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Main Ingredients

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Adds a hearty, savory base. Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a twist.
• Potatoes (3 large): Thinly sliced for even cooking. Russets or Yukon Gold work best.
• Broccoli (2 cups florets, steamed): A nutrient-packed vegetable that complements the creamy texture.

Supporting Ingredients

• Onion (1 small, diced): Enhances the flavor of the beef.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for a gooey top layer.
• Cream Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Use cream of mushroom or cheddar for a rich sauce.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Thins the soup for easy layering.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the onions.

Seasonings

• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the layers.
• Optional Kick: Paprika or red pepper flakes for extra spice.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. PREPARE YOUR INGREDIENTS

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. COOK THE GROUND BEEF

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
• Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
• Drain any excess grease and set aside.

3. MAKE THE CREAMY SAUCE

• In a small bowl, whisk together the can of cream soup and milk until smooth.

4. LAYER THE CASSEROLE

• Arrange half of the potato slices at the bottom of the baking dish.
• Add half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the steamed broccoli.
• Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers, spreading it evenly.
• Repeat the layers: potatoes, beef, broccoli, sauce.

5. ADD THE CHEESY TOPPING

• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.

6. BAKE TO PERFECTION

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. LET IT COOL AND SERVE

• Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

CHEF’S TIPS AND TRICKS

• Even Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices that cook evenly.
• Steaming Broccoli: Steam broccoli lightly—don’t overcook, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Extra Flavor: Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like parsley over the top before serving.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe.

2. Do I need to precook the potatoes?

No, thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook fully during baking. If you prefer thicker slices, consider parboiling them first.

3. What can I use instead of cream soup?

You can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings for a fresh alternative.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Try adding carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more variety.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

6. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream soup for a dairy-free version.

8. How can I reduce the sodium?

Opt for low-sodium soup and cheese, and season with salt sparingly.

9. What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe. Adjust baking time for smaller dishes.

10. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

11. What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?

Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even, thin slices. Uneven slices may result in uneven cooking.

12. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole.

13. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the casserole with foil initially and remove it for the final 15 minutes of baking.

14. What goes well with this casserole?

Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

15. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust baking time as needed.

CONCLUSION

This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Beef Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The combination of creamy layers, tender potatoes, and melty cheese creates a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Make it your own by adding your favorite veggies, adjusting the seasonings, or experimenting with different types of cheese.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, cheesy casserole that warms the soul!

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