Introduction
Looking for a hearty, low-carb, and flavor-packed meal that’s quick to whip up and perfect for any time of day? Enter the Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet—a one-pan wonder that combines the savory satisfaction of seasoned ground beef with the earthy crunch of broccoli florets, all coated in a rich, cheesy, keto-friendly sauce. This meal is the epitome of comfort food without the carb overload, making it ideal for anyone on a ketogenic diet or simply looking to eat healthier.
Not only is this skillet dish filling and packed with protein, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep days. With minimal cleanup, loads of flavor, and customizable ingredients, the Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is about to become your new favorite dish. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small, even florets for quick cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside all your ingredients so they’re ready to go—this is a fast-cooking recipe, and having everything prepped makes it a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then the chopped onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink—about 7–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Simmer
Toss in the broccoli florets and pour in the beef broth. Stir well, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. This step allows the broccoli to steam slightly while soaking in all that beefy goodness.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Reduce heat to low. Add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. The cream will blend with the beef juices and form a rich, decadent sauce that clings to every bite.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir everything together until melted and fully incorporated. If you like a little golden top, you can place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to get that bubbly, cheesy crust. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve hot.
Variation
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Veggie Mix-Up: Swap broccoli with cauliflower, zucchini, or green beans.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sauce Twist: Use a low-carb Alfredo or pesto sauce instead of cream and cheese for a different flavor.
- Add Texture: Top with pork rinds for a crispy finish or toss in some chopped nuts like pecans for crunch.
COOKING Note:
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution. Don’t overcook the broccoli—it should retain a slight bite for the best texture. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions:
This Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet can be served on its own or paired with:
- A crisp green side salad
- Cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles
- Roasted mushrooms or bell peppers
- A slice of keto-friendly garlic bread
Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even breakfast when topped with a fried egg!
Tips:
- Make a double batch for easy meal prep throughout the week.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to avoid separating the creamy sauce.
- Season at each stage for maximum flavor layering.
- Add extra broth or cream if the mixture gets too thick after cooling.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
FAQs
1. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! Let it cool, portion it out, and store in airtight containers. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese options.
3. How can I thicken the sauce?
Add more cream cheese or a pinch of xanthan gum for a thicker consistency.
4. Can I add eggs for breakfast?
Absolutely! Crack a few eggs into the skillet and bake until the whites are set.
5. What if I don’t have beef broth?
Chicken broth or even water with bouillon cubes can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
The Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is everything you need in one pan—flavorful, nutritious, and perfectly suited to a low-carb lifestyle. It’s comforting, convenient, and endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this meal is a staple that brings satisfaction without the guilt. Whip it up once, and you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.