Sink your fork into this sizzling Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet — a quick, hearty one-pan wonder that caters perfectly to your low-carb cravings. Seared ground beef meatballs offer juicy, savory bites nestled among crisp-tender broccoli florets, all cloaked in a blanket of melty cheddar cheese. Whether you’re keto or just need a satisfying, protein-rich dinner, this skillet gets it done fast.

This recipe is tailor-made for busy weeknights when you want dinner on the table in under 30 minutes without compromising flavor. Each bite packs comfort, crunch, and cheesy goodness. It’s also completely gluten-free, making it a smart choice for a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients for this Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, chopped parsley for garnish

Step 1: Form and Season the Meatballs

In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add broccoli florets. If the pan is dry, drizzle a bit more oil. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until broccoli becomes vibrant green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Combine and Melt

Return meatballs to the skillet with broccoli. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Optional: Garnish with red pepper flakes or parsley. Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the meatball mix for added heat.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just steam or thaw it first, then sauté as directed. It may release more water, so drain if necessary.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is a great choice, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also melt beautifully.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Divide into individual containers and store in the fridge for ready-to-go lunches.

Can I swap ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work too — just adjust seasoning for flavor depth.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative or omit cheese entirely and season with extra herbs and spices.

Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 3-4 servings

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Description

Need a quick dinner that checks all the boxes? This Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet is the answer. It’s a one-pan meal that brings together juicy seared meatballs, fresh sautéed broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese for a comfort-filled, low-carb masterpiece. Ideal for quick dinners, healthy meals, or when you’re browsing for dinner ideas that won’t derail your keto journey. With minimal cleanup and bold flavor, it’s the perfect easy recipe to have on hand.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)

Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley

Instructions

In a bowl, mix beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Form into 1 to 1.5 inch meatballs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook meatballs until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add broccoli. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
Return meatballs to skillet, sprinkle with cheese, and cover until cheese melts (2-3 minutes).
Garnish as desired. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner