Keto Hamburger Broccoli Skillet

A simple, one-pan keto-friendly dish that brings together juicy seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, and creamy cheesy sauce. I created this skillet meal to be fast, flavorful, and low-carb—perfect for busy weeknights when I want hearty comfort without the carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a no-fuss, satisfying dinner ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory hamburger and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious cheese sauce, hits the spot every time. Plus, it’s all cooked in a single skillet—minimal cleanup!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)

• Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• Onion, diced

• Garlic, minced

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Cheddar cheese, shredded

• Heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk

• Beef broth or water

• Olive oil or butter

• Italian seasoning or dried herbs

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil or butter. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 30 seconds.

3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (plus red pepper flakes, if using). Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

4. Add broccoli florets to the skillet along with beef broth. Cover and let steam for about 5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.

5. Reduce heat to low, stir in cream cheese until it melts and blends with the liquid.

6. Pour in heavy cream (or almond milk) and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until everything is melted into a smooth sauce.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat.

8. Serve warm, topped with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This skillet serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: I add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Veggie mix-up: I swap in cauliflower florets or add bell peppers for color and variety.

• Cheese blend: I use a mix of Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda for richer flavor.

• Bacon boost: I cook and crumble bacon into the mix before adding broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat until hot and sauce loosens, or microwave individual portions for about 1–2 minutes. If sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or cream.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes—I often swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. I adjust seasoning since poultry can be milder.

Is frozen broccoli okay?

Absolutely! I thaw and drain extra liquid before adding, then reduce steaming time slightly.

Can I make this dairy-free?

I substitute cream cheese with coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese and use dairy-free cheese. Texture differs but still creamy and tasty.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

I stir in a little xanthan gum or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water, then add it while simmering until thickened.

Can I prepare it ahead?

I cook the beef and broccoli ahead, but hold off on adding cheese and cream. Then I add and melt them just before serving to keep it fresh and saucy.

Conclusion

I find this Keto Hamburger Broccoli Skillet to be a quick, comforting, and satisfying low-carb meal that never disappoints. It’s creamy, flavorful, and ready in minutes—ideal for any night when I crave a warm, wholesome dish. I hope it becomes a staple in your keto weeknight rotation!