Introduction:

This Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for your low-carb lifestyle. It combines juicy ground beef with tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and a kick of spice for a satisfying, savory dish. Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something comforting and keto-friendly, this dish has you covered!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add broccoli florets to the skillet with the beef. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and cover the skillet. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with additional red pepper flakes if desired.

Variations:

Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey or Chicken:
If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken is an easy variation. Ground turkey or chicken provides a leaner alternative, which works well in a keto dish when paired with the richness of the cheese and cream. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey and chicken have a milder flavor compared to beef, so you may want to increase the seasoning (like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of smoked paprika) to maintain a flavorful profile. This variation makes the dish a bit lighter while still satisfying your protein needs.
Add beef Bacon or Sausage for Extra Flavor:
For a savory, crispy twist, try adding some cooked beef bacon bits or crumbled sausage. beef Bacon’s smoky, crispy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and the beef, adding extra depth of flavor and crunch. You can use either regular or turkey bacon, depending on your preference. For sausage, choose a mild or spicy Italian sausage for an additional layer of flavor. Be sure to cook the beef bacon or sausage before adding it to the skillet, so the meat crisps up and infuses the dish with its delicious fat.
Vegetarian Option with Tofu or Tempeh:
If you’re following a vegetarian or plant-based diet, replacing the ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh is a great alternative. Tofu takes on the flavors of the seasonings you add, while tempeh has a nutty flavor that complements the dish nicely. Both tofu and tempeh provide a good amount of protein, making them a satisfying substitute. You can sauté them in olive oil to get a crispy texture before mixing them with the broccoli and cheese for a hearty, vegetarian skillet.

Cooking Notes:

For added flavor, try mixing in some cooked beef bacon bits or diced bell peppers.
You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair with a Fresh Salad:
To balance the richness of the Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet, serve it with a fresh, crisp salad. The cool crunch of lettuce, cucumber, or arugula pairs wonderfully with the creamy and savory beef and cheese. For added flavor, top your salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice. A light side salad with a few slices of avocado can also complement the dish by adding healthy fats that align with the keto diet while bringing additional creaminess.
Serve with Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles:
For a full meal without exceeding your carb limit, serve the skillet over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb option, and it absorbs the rich sauce from the beef and cheese. If you prefer zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”), sauté them lightly in olive oil before serving. These vegetables not only help fill you up but also add a fresh contrast to the dish’s creamy, savory profile.
Top with an Egg for Extra Protein:
A fried or poached egg on top of your skillet can elevate the dish while adding extra protein and a creamy texture when the yolk breaks. The richness of the egg complements the flavors of the beef and cheese, making it even more filling. A soft-boiled egg would also work well if you prefer a runny yolk. Simply cook the egg separately and place it on top just before serving.

Tips:

Experiment with Cheese Varieties:
While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, feel free to mix things up by experimenting with different types of cheese. Mozzarella will give the dish a milder, stringy texture, while Parmesan or Gruyère will add a more robust, savory flavor. Mixing cheeses can also create an interesting flavor profile—try a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for the perfect balance of richness and meltability.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste:
Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your liking. If you prefer a more garlicky flavor, you can add an extra teaspoon of garlic powder. For a deeper, richer taste, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can help bring out the umami flavors in the beef. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can enhance the overall flavor, bringing a touch of warmth and smokiness without overpowering the dish.
Customize the Spice Level:
The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat to the dish, but you can easily adjust the spice level depending on your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes altogether. On the other hand, if you enjoy a little more heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and adjust gradually so the heat doesn’t overwhelm the dish.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 400
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to avoid extra moisture. Cooking time may be slightly reduced, so keep an eye on the broccoli while it cooks to ensure it reaches the desired tenderness.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative (like one made from coconut or almonds) and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure the substitutes fit your dietary needs.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still work well in this dish. You may need to increase the seasoning to balance out the milder flavor of the turkey or chicken.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion:

This Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is the perfect quick and easy low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by anyone on a keto diet or anyone simply looking to reduce their carb intake. With its rich cheese sauce, savory ground beef, and tender broccoli, it’s a one-pan wonder that will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you choose to make it exactly as the recipe suggests or add your own twist with different vegetables or seasonings, this skillet dish is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to please.

Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet

Author: Avery
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add broccoli florets to the skillet with the beef. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and cover the skillet. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with additional red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, try mixing in some cooked beef bacon bits or diced bell peppers.
You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: keto, hamburger, broccoli, skillet, low carb, cheesy