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Keto Ground Beef Cheesy Broccoli Bake - Cozy, Low-Carb Comfort Food

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works well)
  • 5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced (optional for flavor; skip if strict keto)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (adds depth to the cheese sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Cook the broccoli: Steam or microwave the broccoli until crisp-tender—about 3–4 minutes for fresh, 5–6 for frozen. Drain well and pat dry to avoid watery sauce.
  3. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. If using onion, add it now and cook until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream and butter until just steaming. Whisk in the cream cheese until smooth. Add Dijon and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheese until melted and velvety. Adjust seasoning.
  5. Assemble the bake: Add the broccoli and ground beef to the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently fold to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese over the surface. Add red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
  6. Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. If you want extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely.
  7. Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.