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This Keto Hamburger Broccoli Skillet is my go—to meal for busy evenings when I need something comforting that will not make me feel weighed down. Thanks to humble ingredients like ground beef and broccoli, plus melty cheddar cheese, everything comes together in one pan and saves me so much cleanup. If you want a hearty, keto—friendly dinner with big flavors and hardly any fuss, you will love this recipe.
This recipe came to life on a weeknight when I had almost nothing left in the fridge yet needed something warm and filling. Now it is a regular part of my kitchen rotation and my favorite after—work comfort food.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 80 percent lean 20 percent fat brings rich flavor and juiciness Choose beef with good marbling for best results
- Broccoli florets: fresh or frozen both work but fresh broccoli has better texture Look for vibrant green heads without yellowing
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds creaminess and bold cheesy taste Pick a sharp cheddar for depth of flavor
- Olive oil: helps brown the beef and keeps everything from sticking Use extra virgin for a hint of fruity flavor
- Garlic powder: brings a mellow garlicky kick Make sure yours is fresh for best taste
- Onion powder: gives easy savory notes Check for a fine powder with a fragrant smell
- Salt and pepper: for balance and seasoning Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Red pepper flakes: optional but perfect for a gentle heat Always taste first so you do not overdo it
- Heavy cream: the finishing touch to make the dish luscious and creamy Choose full fat cream for richness
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Get your ground beef broccoli and cheese ready Measure out what you need Wash and chop fresh broccoli into small bite—sized florets so they cook evenly
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat Drizzle in the olive oil and let it shimmer Add the ground beef Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook five to seven minutes until it is deeply browned and no pink remains This step builds the flavor base and makes a big difference
- Add Broccoli and Seasonings:
- Sprinkle in your broccoli florets Turn the pieces with the beef Dust in garlic powder onion powder salt pepper and the red pepper flakes if using Stir well so every bite gets coated Cook another five to seven minutes Let the broccoli get bright green and tender but keep it a bit crisp for best texture
- Create the Sauce:
- Lower your heat Pour in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese Stir constantly until cheese melts completely The mixture should look creamy and smooth Be patient here because this step brings everything together
- Finish and Melt Cheese:
- Scatter the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top Cover the skillet Cook an extra two to three minutes so the cheese gets bubbly and melts into a gooey topping
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Heavy cream is my personal favorite in this dish because it makes everything silky and indulgent My kids now ask for extra broccoli just to get more of the cheesy cream sauce and I cannot complain about that
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool then transfer to an airtight container in the fridge It will keep for three days easily For best texture reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts with the lid loosely on
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey for beef if you prefer a leaner option or want a lighter flavor Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese is wonderful in place of cheddar If using frozen broccoli thaw first and pat dry so excess water does not make the skillet soggy
Serving Suggestions
Serve this right out of the skillet or scoop over a bed of fresh spinach for even more veggies You can top with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes or some chopped chives for color and brightness
Cultural Context
This recipe is a nod to classic American hamburger casseroles but reimagined to fit a keto lifestyle There is something nostalgic about ground beef broccoli and cheese together This one pan update makes it doable any night of the week
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This skillet is as simple as it is crave worthy and perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that will have everyone wanting seconds
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain before adding to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
- → What kind of ground beef works best?
Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness in your skillet meal.
- → How do I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?
Lower the heat before adding cream and cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is just melted and creamy.
- → Are there substitutions for cheddar cheese?
You can try other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different taste.
- → How can I add more spice to the dish?
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional heat.