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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth and nostalgia as a hearty casserole. Casseroles have long held a cherished spot in family meal traditions, serving as a convenient and satisfying way to bring loved ones together around the dinner table. The Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out as a delicious option that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, the crunch of broccoli, and the creamy goodness of melted cheese, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Looking for a comforting meal that brings the family together? This Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect solution! With ground beef, crunchy broccoli, and a delicious blend of cheeses, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. It's easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it provides a balanced meal packed with protein and nutrients. Dive into this delicious recipe and create warm memories around the dinner table!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces)

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups beef broth

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach temperature while you prepare the casserole.

    Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it is browned all the way through. Use a spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring even browning. If there's excess fat, drain it from the skillet.

      Season the Beef: Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the browned beef mixture. Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld for a minute before removing the skillet from the heat.

        Prepare the Rice Layer: In a large mixing bowl, add the uncooked rice followed by the beef broth. Incorporate the broccoli florets, ensuring they are well distributed. If using fresh broccoli, make sure to chop it into small, uniform pieces, as this will help them steam properly while the rice cooks.

          Combine Ingredients: Transfer the rice and broccoli mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the cooked ground beef mixture, also spreading it out evenly across the rice layer.

            Add Cheeses: Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the ground beef layer. Then, layer the remaining rice and broccoli mixture on top. Finally, add the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top, creating a cheesy, delicious finish.

              Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Put it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.

                Final Touch: After baking for 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Scoop generous portions onto plates and savor this delightful, warming cheesy comfort dish!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

                      - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the casserole in individual portions garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Pair it with a light side salad for a complete meal.