Pin It This hearty one-pan meal combines seasoned ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli florets in a savory skillet. Aromatics like onion and garlic build depth, while smoked paprika and dried oregano add warmth. The dish finishes with a creamy blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar that melts into every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an ideal solution for hectic evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tuesday nights used to mean takeout menus and guilty compromises until I threw this skillet together on a whim. The broccoli was wilting in the crisper, ground beef was thawing on the counter, and suddenly dinner transformed into something that actually made me look forward to cooking after a long day.
My sister called me mid-chew during her first尝试, asking what restaurant I ordered from. When I told her it took twenty minutes and one skillet, she demanded the recipe immediately. Now it is the meal she makes for her family every Sunday night.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The 80/20 ratio provides enough fat to keep everything juicy without needing extra oil
- Broccoli florets: Fresh holds up better during steaming, but frozen works in a pinch if thawed first
- Small onion: Dicing it small helps it melt into the background rather than overwhelming the beef
- Garlic: Mincing it fresh releases oils that powdered garlic simply cannot match
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch against the rich beef
- Cream cheese: Full fat is essential here because it creates that restaurant style sauce base
- Olive oil: High heat requires an oil with a decent smoke point
- Salt and black pepper: The foundation that lets the other spices actually shine
- Smoked paprika: This secret ingredient adds a subtle smoky depth without any actual smoking
- Dried oregano: Brings an earthy Italian note that balances the richness
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Even a tiny amount wakes up the whole dish
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat half the oil in your largest skillet over medium high heat, then toss in the onion and let it soften until translucent and fragrant
- Brown the beef:
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with your spatula, letting it develop that beautiful brown crust before draining any excess fat
- Build the flavor base:
- Stir in the garlic and all the spices, cooking just until the garlic releases its perfume and fills your kitchen
- Add the broccoli:
- Push everything to one side, add the remaining oil, and let the broccoli florets sizzle briefly before tossing them with the beef
- Steam to tender:
- Pour in a few tablespoons of water, cover the skillet tight, and let the broccoli steam until it is bright green and just tender
- Create the sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it melts into a glossy coating that hugs every ingredient
- Melt the cheddar:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over everything, cover again, and let it transform into a bubbling, golden blanket
- Serve it up:
- Scoop into bowls while the cheese is still molten and irresistible
Pin It This recipe has become my go-to for new parents and busy friends who need something comforting but do not have time to cook. Every time I drop off a container, they text me the next morning asking for the recipe.
Making It Your Own
Bacon crumbles on top take this from excellent to unforgettable. Cauliflower works surprisingly well as a broccoli substitute if that is what you have in the freezer. Ground turkey makes it lighter, but you will want to add an extra splash of oil.
Side Dish Ideas
A crisp cucumber salad with vinegar dressing cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted radishes add another low carb element that feels substantial without breaking your diet goals.
Storage and Meal Prep
This actually tastes better the next day when the spices have had time to mingle. Portion into glass containers before refrigerating and they will keep beautifully for four days.
- Reheat with a splash of water to revive the sauce
- The freezer is your friend for up to three months
- Let it cool completely before storing to avoid condensation
Pin It There is something deeply satisfying about a meal that comes together so quickly yet tastes like it simmered all afternoon. That first bite of beef and broccoli with that creamy cheese sauce is pure weeknight magic.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
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Substitute the cheddar and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast. The texture will be slightly different but still satisfying.
- → What other vegetables work well in this skillet?
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Cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are excellent additions. Adjust cooking times accordingly as softer vegetables need less time.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
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Yes, cook everything through step 6, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding the cheddar just before serving.
- → Is this freezer-friendly?
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The beef and broccoli mixture freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with fresh cheese for best results.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
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Frozen broccoli works perfectly. No need to thaw first—just add it directly to the skillet and increase steaming time by 1-2 minutes.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
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Increase red pepper flakes for more heat or omit them entirely for a mild version. A dash of hot sauce works great too.
