Easy Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet Meal
If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and wholesome low-carb dinner, the Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is exactly what you need. This meal brings together juicy ground beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory blend that bursts with flavor while keeping carbs in check. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting, protein-packed dish, this skillet meal is both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
- Low-carb and filling: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you full without the carbs.
- One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful and versatile: Seasoned ground beef and crisp broccoli make every bite satisfying and customizable.
- Kid-friendly: A balanced meal even picky eaters will love!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients combine to create a comforting Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet that’s full of flavor and texture. Each one plays its role whether providing taste, nutrition, or color for the perfect low-carb dinner.
- Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for juicy, flavorful meat that browns beautifully.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli adds crunch, fiber, and nutrients.
- Onion: Finely chopped to build depth of flavor and sweetness.
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses the skillet with aromatic punch.
- Olive oil: A light sauté base that keeps the dish keto-friendly.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar or mozzarella melts perfectly and adds richness.
- Beef broth: Enhances moisture and savory flavor without adding carbs.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs bring the flavors together.
Variations for Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your preferences or pantry staples. It’s a forgiving, flexible dish that welcomes creativity while staying low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Zucchini substitution: Replace broccoli with zucchini for a softer texture and lighter taste.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring heat to the skillet.
- Cheese swaps: Use pepper jack or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Extra veggies: Throw in mushrooms or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Different protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
How to Make Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion and garlic finely and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets if using fresh. Measure out your seasonings and shred the cheese so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions to the browned beef and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Season
Mix in the broccoli florets and sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Pour in the beef broth to add moisture, cover the skillet, and let everything steam together for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Serve
Reduce heat to low then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. Once melted, give everything a gentle stir and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Making Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet
- Use fresh broccoli: It provides better texture and flavor versus frozen, but both work.
- Don’t skip the browning: Properly browning beef adds rich, caramelized flavor essential to this dish.
- Control moisture: Drain excess fat and avoid overwatering with broth to keep the skillet from getting mushy.
- Cheese timing: Add cheese last to ensure a creamy melt without overcooking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and season during cooking, as ground beef can vary in saltiness.
How to Serve Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet
Garnishes
Top with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh bite that brightens the dish instantly.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice for extra veggies while keeping the meal low-carb and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the skillet into individual ramekins for a fun presentation or serve over a bed of shredded lettuce as a keto-friendly taco bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors fresh and ready for quick reheating.
Freezing
This skillet meal freezes well. Portion it out and freeze in meal prep containers for up to 2 months for easy keto dinners anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well, just thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep since it stores and reheats nicely without losing flavor or texture.
Can I substitute other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda depending on your taste preferences.
What’s the best ground beef fat percentage to use?
80/20 ground beef offers a good balance of flavor and fat, keeping the dish juicy and satisfying, though leaner types can also work.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can all be added to bulk up the dish and increase nutrient variety while keeping it keto-friendly.
Final Thoughts
The Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is a standout meal that combines ease, flavor, and nutrition into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re new to keto or simply want a tasty low-carb dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. Cook it once, and it’s sure to become one of your favorite quick meal go-tos!
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PrintKeto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet
A quick, delicious, and wholesome low-carb dinner combining juicy ground beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory skillet dish. This Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a protein-packed, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (dried)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic finely. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets if fresh. Measure seasonings and shred cheese so all ingredients are ready.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, break up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the browned beef and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 more seconds to release aroma.
- Add Broccoli and Season: Mix in broccoli florets. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Pour in beef broth, cover skillet, and steam for 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender but crisp.
- Melt the Cheese and Serve: Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over skillet. Cover and let cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. Stir gently and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for better texture and flavor; frozen works if thawed and drained.
- Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds essential caramelized flavor.
- Drain excess fat and avoid too much broth to prevent sogginess.
- Add cheese last for a creamy melt without overcooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings during cooking as ground beef saltiness may vary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: keto, low-carb, hamburger skillet, broccoli skillet, ground beef recipe, quick dinner, keto dinner