Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high.
Add butter or oil, then the ground beef. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
Sauté aromatics: Push the beef to one side. Add onion and broccoli to the other side. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the broccoli turns bright green.
Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Create the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and beef broth. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 2–3 minutes, stirring to combine.
Melt the cheeses: Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese (if using) until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or cream.
Add greens: Fold in spinach or kale and cook 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, chopped herbs, and a touch of lemon zest or a small squeeze of lemon if you like brightness. Serve hot.