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This filling Keto Beef and Broccoli One-Pan Dinner has turned into my go-to meal when I'm craving something tasty but need to stay low-carb. The blend of flavorful ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli and gooey cheddar makes a full meal using just a single skillet.
I whipped up this dish during my keto journey's first few weeks when I was really missing my beloved pasta meals. Now it's what I always turn to when I want something substantial without feeling sluggish afterward.
What You'll Need
- Ground beef: An 80/20 mix gives you ideal fat levels for taste and keto satisfaction
- Broccoli florets: They pack in vitamins and fiber while soaking up all those yummy flavors
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds that amazing velvety texture and rich taste
- Olive oil: Gets the beef nicely browned and boosts your healthy fat intake
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Give deep flavor without the carb count of fresh ones
- Heavy cream: Pulls everything into a silky, indulgent dish
- Red pepper flakes: Not required but they add a nice warmth that makes everything pop
Making Your One-Pan Meal
- Get Everything Ready:
- Sort out and prep your ingredients before you start cooking. For fresh broccoli, give it a good wash and cut into same-sized florets so they cook evenly. Having everything at hand makes cooking way smoother.
- Cook Your Beef:
- Get your biggest pan hot over medium heat and pour in olive oil until it's glistening. Throw in your ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Let it cook about 5-7 minutes until there's no pink and edges start to brown. Keep all the fat in there - it's good for keto and adds loads of flavor.
- Mix In Veggies and Spices:
- Toss your broccoli right in with the meat. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some kick. Mix everything well so the broccoli gets coated in those meat juices and seasonings. Cook another 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until the broccoli turns bright green but still has some crunch.
- Finish With Cheesy Goodness:
- Turn the heat down low so your dairy won't break. Pour your heavy cream over everything and right away add half the cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce coating everything. Scatter the rest of your cheese on top, put a lid on, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes until it's all bubbly and tempting.
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The heavy cream is what really makes this dish special. Those couple tablespoons turn it from just okay to restaurant-worthy by creating that smooth sauce that ties everything together. Even my husband, who usually passes on anything with broccoli, asks for this meal every week.
Simple Twists
You can easily switch things up while keeping this dish keto-friendly. Try throwing in some mushrooms for deeper flavor, or use pepper jack instead of cheddar for some heat. Want more greens? Just mix in some spinach right at the end of cooking. The basic idea stays the same - just cook different veggies for the right amount of time.
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Keeping Leftovers
This one-pan meal actually tastes better the next day as all the flavors mix together. Keep any extras in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to warm it up, do it slowly in a covered pan on medium-low heat with a splash of water or a bit more cream to keep it moist. Try not to use the microwave if you can help it since it can make your broccoli too soft.
What To Serve With It
This dish stands on its own perfectly, but it also goes great with simple sides. Try it with some sliced avocado for extra good fats, or a quick side salad dressed with olive oil. If you're feeding family members who aren't doing keto, you can give them some rice or bread on the side while you enjoy yours as is.
Why It's Great For Keto
The beauty of this meal is how well it balances your nutrients. The 80/20 ground beef gives you enough fat to feel full plus plenty of protein. Broccoli is one of the best low-carb veggies out there, giving you fiber and nutrients without too many carbs. Together they make a meal that keeps your blood sugar steady while still tasting like comfort food.
Common Questions
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
For sure! Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just remember they're leaner, so you might want to add some extra butter or oil for richness.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
You bet. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out extra water before tossing it in the pan.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Pop any extras in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm them up in your skillet or microwave when you're ready to eat again.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
You can swap in some plant-based cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to skip the dairy completely.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh green salad or some cauliflower rice works great alongside this skillet for a full keto-friendly dinner.