Looking for a hearty, one-pan keto dinner that’s packed with flavour and ready in under 30 minutes? This Keto Minced Beef Skillet with Cheesy Broccoli and Peppers is your answer. It’s a satisfying, low-carb meal that brings together juicy minced beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and sweet bell peppers, all finished with a golden, bubbling cheese topping.
Why is this skillet a weeknight winner? It’s high in protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energised without the carb crash. The combination of beef and vegetables delivers a comforting, homestyle taste, while the cheese adds a rich, creamy finish. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, making clean-up a breeze.
To make it, you’ll brown the beef with garlic and onion, toss in colourful peppers and broccoli, then top with grated cheddar before a quick oven blast. The result: a bubbling, golden-topped skillet that’s perfect for sharing. Serve it straight from the pan for a rustic, family-style meal that everyone will love.
At a glance
- Time: 28 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 350 kcal
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (Ideally 15–20% fat for flavour)
- 200g Broccoli florets (Cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper (Deseeded and sliced)
- 1 small Onion (Finely chopped)
- 2 Garlic cloves (Minced)
- 100g Cheddar cheese (Coarsely grated)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For frying)
- 1 tsp Paprika (Smoked or sweet)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (To taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Equipment Needed
- Large ovenproof frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Grater
Steps
- Preheat your oven grill to high (about 220°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Sear for 5–6 minutes until browned and most liquid has evaporated.
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the broccoli florets and sliced red pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender but still bright.
- Flatten the mixture slightly, then sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the top.
- Place the pan under the grill for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving straight from the pan.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Cheddar cheese → Dairy-free cheese alternative — For a dairy-free version
- Olive oil → Butter or ghee — For a richer flavour
- Red bell pepper → Courgette or green pepper — If peppers aren’t available
Serving Ideas
- With a crisp green salad – for freshness and crunch.
- Topped with sliced avocado – adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Alongside cauliflower mash – for a classic comfort food pairing.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Use a mix of red and yellow peppers for extra colour.
- Let the skillet rest before serving for easier portioning.
- Grate cheese fresh for best melting and flavour.
Variations
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
- Stir in chopped spinach at the end for extra greens.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or blue cheese for a different flavour profile.
Troubleshooting
- If the beef releases too much liquid, increase heat to evaporate before adding vegetables.
- If cheese browns too quickly, move pan further from grill element.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish also freezes well for meal prep.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat in a moderate oven (180°C) until piping hot, or microwave individual portions.
Ingredient Spotlight
Minced beef: Rich in protein and iron, minced beef is versatile and adds hearty flavour to keto meals.
Broccoli: Low in carbs and high in fibre, broccoli brings nutrients and colour to the skillet.
Cheddar cheese: Provides creaminess and a golden finish, plus extra protein and fat for satiety.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Add a splash of olive oil for extra moisture.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese and add extra herbs for flavour.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to the cheese step, refrigerate, then grill and serve when ready.
What other vegetables can I use?
Try courgette, spinach, or green beans for variety, keeping net carbs low.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until piping hot.
Keto Minced Beef Skillet with Cheesy Broccoli and Peppers
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (Ideally 15–20% fat for flavour)
- 200g Broccoli florets (Cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper (Deseeded and sliced)
- 1 small Onion (Finely chopped)
- 2 Garlic cloves (Minced)
- 100g Cheddar cheese (Coarsely grated)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For frying)
- 1 tsp Paprika (Smoked or sweet)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (To taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven grill to high (about 220°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Sear for 5–6 minutes until browned and most liquid has evaporated.
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the broccoli florets and sliced red pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender but still bright.
- Flatten the mixture slightly, then sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the top.
- Place the pan under the grill for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving straight from the pan.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Cheddar cheese → Dairy-free cheese alternative — For a dairy-free version
- Olive oil → Butter or ghee — For a richer flavour
- Red bell pepper → Courgette or green pepper — If peppers aren’t available
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 350 kcal
