Introduction
Transform ordinary hamburger and broccoli into an extraordinary weeknight dinner with this One-Pan Cheesy Hamburger Broccoli Skillet! It’s quick, easy, and the whole family will love it. We’re taking simple ingredients and turning them into a cheesy, comforting masterpiece that’s perfect for busy evenings. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and incredibly simple to make!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a one-pan wonder! Less cleanup is always a win, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of savory hamburger, tender broccoli, and gooey cheese creates a delicious flavor balance that everyone will enjoy. It’s also incredibly adaptable – feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Key Ingredients
- 🍔 1 lb ground beef
- 🥦 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🤤 ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 🍅 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion; cook, breaking up the beef, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2️⃣ Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3️⃣ Stir in broccoli florets, diced tomatoes (undrained), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4️⃣ Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
5️⃣ Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to substitute other cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is used initially to brown the ground beef and cook the onions quickly. Then, the heat is reduced to medium-low to allow the broccoli to cook gently and evenly without burning. This ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Crunch Factor
We aim for a tender-crisp broccoli texture in this recipe. Overcooking will result in mushy broccoli, so be sure to follow the cooking time instructions carefully. The slight crunch of the broccoli contrasts beautifully with the soft, melted cheese and the savory ground beef.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-chopped broccoli florets to save time.
- Add a splash of beef broth for extra richness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but if serving to friends, consider a rustic, oven-safe skillet presentation!
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic.
🌟 Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
🌟 Italian Twist: Replace the cheddar and mozzarella with Parmesan and provolone cheese and add some Italian seasoning.
Troubleshooting
- Broccoli too mushy: Reduce cooking time and/or use less liquid.
- Beef too dry: Add a tablespoon of beef broth or water during cooking.
- Cheese not melting: Ensure the cheese is properly shredded and increase the cooking time slightly.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
- What kind of skillet should I use? A large, oven-safe skillet is ideal.
- Can I make this in advance? The skillet is best served immediately.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Cheesy Hamburger Broccoli Skillet is a weeknight dinner winner! It’s so easy to make, delicious, and perfect for the whole family. Give it a try and share your photos on Ratemyrecipes.com – we can’t wait to see your creations! Enjoy!
Cheesy Hamburger Broccoli Skillet: Family Dinner Winner
A delightful one-pan dish combining ground beef, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautu00e9ing until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in broccoli florets, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat to low, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and cover until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite spices or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.