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Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 66 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful one-dish meal that combines tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, fluffy long-grain rice, and a rich, gooey cheddar-mozzarella cheese sauce. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, it’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and delivers balanced nutrition with protein, fiber, and energy-boosting carbs. The crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite a textural delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
  • 2 cups (350 g) uncooked long-grain rice
  • 3 cups (260 g) fresh broccoli florets

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings & Extras

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Topping

  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Optional: extra shredded cheddar for extra crust

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on a clean workspace. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly, as dry broccoli browns better during baking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the rice, milk, and cheeses so everything is ready to go.
  2. Cooking the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Crumble in the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Push the beef to one side of the pan.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic. Season the mixture with smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine and allow spices to toast lightly.
  4. Cook the Rice: While the beef simmers, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and stir in the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
  5. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with a small amount of salt if needed.
  6. Steam the Broccoli: Briefly steam the broccoli florets for 2 minutes to keep them bright green and slightly crisp. Drain well.
  7. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-x-13-inch baking dish. Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom. Top with the seasoned ground beef, then scatter the steamed broccoli florets on top. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the entire dish, using a spatula to coat all areas. Mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Add extra shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired for a crustier topping.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges.
  9. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese sauce to set. Cut into slices and serve warm.

Notes

  • Dry the broccoli well before baking to avoid soggy topping.
  • Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting and better browning.
  • Lightly toast panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before mixing with butter for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • If the top browns too quickly during baking, cover loosely with foil after 15 minutes to prevent burning.
  • For extra flavor, stir Dijon mustard or cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce.
  • Assemble casserole night before and refrigerate uncovered for make-ahead convenience.
  • Ensure ground beef reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinners
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: cheesy casserole, beef casserole, broccoli rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, make-ahead casserole, cheddar cheese, one-pan meal, family dinner

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Find it online: https://harperellington.com/cheesy-beef-and-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/