This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe brings together tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. With the help of the Instant Pot, this recipe makes sure that the beef is perfectly cooked and the flavors are beautifully infused into every bite.
This wholesome dish tastes incredible and is perfect for dinner nights when you want something healthy and delicious, yet easy to make.
The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic serves to create a delicious and aromatic sauce that coats the beef and broccoli, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve at a dinner party, this instant pot beef and broccoli recipe is sure to please everyone’s palate.
Want to learn how to make this Instant Pot beef and broccoli recipe? Then keep on reading!
Table of Contents
- What is Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli?
- What Makes This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe Special?
- What You Need to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli at Home
- How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (Step-by-Step)
- Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Ever
- Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
- Recipe Variation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Store Leftover Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
- Similar Recipes You'll Love
- Recipe Card
- Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (Tastes Good Every Time!)
- Comments
What is Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli?
Instant pot beef and broccoli is a popular Chinese-American dish made with tender beef slices and fresh broccoli florets cooked in a savory sauce. The dish is typically served over steamed rice or noodles.
One of the main reasons why this dish is so popular is because it is quick and easy to make in an instant pot. The pressure cooking feature helps to tenderize the beef quickly, resulting in a flavorful and tender meat.
Plus, the combination of beef and broccoli is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef is a good source of protein, while broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. Broccoli is even rich in vitamin C and will help boost the immune system.
The sauce used in the dish is usually made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings, creating a savory and umami flavor profile. And you get all this without any added calories, cholesterol, or sodium while being a great source of protein and carbohydrates!
This Instant Pot beef and broccoli is seriously a satisfying and comforting dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Trust me, you’re going to absolutely love the flavors in every single bite.
What Makes This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe Special?
Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal effort and time to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Versatile: It can easily be customized to suit individual preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer to use different cuts of beef, add extra vegetables, or adjust the sauce ingredients, this recipe can accommodate a variety of variations.
Delicious flavors: The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce creates a delicious and satisfying dish. The flavors meld together perfectly, making each bite a delight for your taste buds.
Healthy and nutritious: It serves to incorporate lean protein from the beef, essential vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, and a homemade sauce that can be made with healthier ingredients. It is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to please everyone. The classic flavors and comforting nature of this dish make it popular with people of all ages and tastes.
What You Need to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli at Home
All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this instant pot beef and broccoli recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:
For the Sauce:
- Bouillon beef paste: We will need some bouillon beef paste to make this recipe. It will add a rich and savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing the taste of the dish.
- Low sodium soy sauce: We will also need low sodium soy sauce. It will add a salty and umami taste to the sauce, giving it a depth of flavor.
- Sesame oil: Next, we will be adding some sesame oil. It will infuse the dish with a nutty and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- Minced garlic: We will be using minced garlic which will add a bold and pungent flavor to the sauce, making it more flavorful.
- Minced ginger: We will also use minced ginger. It will provide a warm and spicy taste to the dish, giving it a refreshing kick.
- Red pepper flakes: Remember to incorporate red pepper flakes in this recipe. It will add a hint of spiciness to the sauce, giving it a little heat.
- Brown sugar: We will be adding some brown sugar as well. It will balance out the flavors in the sauce, adding a touch of sweetness.
For the Beef:
- Olive oil: Next, we will be adding olive oil. It will help to cook the beef and vegetables, preventing them from sticking to the pan.
- Flank: We will also need some flank to make this recipe. It will be the main protein in the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture.
- Water: We will be adding some water which will help to cook the beef and vegetables, providing moisture to the dish.
- Potato or cornstarch: We will also need potato or cornstarch. It will act as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.
- Broccoli florets: Lastly, we will be using broccoli florets to make this recipe. They will add a crunchy and vibrant element to the dish, providing a healthy dose of nutrients.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (Step-by-Step)
Making this incredible Instant Pot beef and broccoli is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:
How to Make the Sauce
Start by preparing the sauce in a small bowl. Mix together the water, bullion paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic and ginger, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Set the sauce aside until you are ready to use it.
How to Sear Beef in Instant Pot
To prepare the meat, begin by slicing the flank steak across the grain. This will help to make the meat more tender.
Press the sauté function on your Instant Pot and wait for the indicator light to turn to “Hot.” This will make sure that the meat browns properly.
Place a small batch of beef strips into the Instant Pot and sear them on each side until they are browned. It is important to do this in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which would cause the meat to release too much juice and take longer to brown.
How to Cook Beef and Broccoli in Instant Pot
Once the meat is browned, turn off the sauté function and return all of the meat to the Instant Pot.
To cook this dish, begin by pouring the prepared sauce over the meat in the Instant Pot and stir everything together. Make sure that the meat is coated evenly.
Close the lid and set the cook cycle to High Pressure for 10 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook thoroughly and become tender.
Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
While the pressure is being released, prepare a starch mixture by mixing ¼ cup of water with 3 tablespoons of either potato or cornstarch. This will help to thicken the sauce.
Now remove the lid and add the starch mixture to the cooked meat. Stir everything together to combine.
Press the sauté function on your Instant Pot and bring the sauce with meat to a boil. The sauce will thicken a bit. Turn the Instant Pot sauté function off.
Finally, add the broccoli florets to the Instant Pot and mix everything once more. Close the Instant Pot lid and let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the broccoli to steam and become tender.
Serve the beef and broccoli over rice and garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Ever
Prep the ingredients before starting: Before you start cooking, make sure to prep all your ingredients. This includes slicing the beef, chopping the broccoli, and mincing or grating the fresh garlic and ginger. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.
Sear the beef for extra flavor: To add depth of flavor to the beef, sear it in the instant pot before pressure cooking with the help of the saute function as I mentioned in the recipe. This step enhances the taste and texture of the meat.
Add the broccoli after pressure cooking: To avoid overcooking the broccoli and turning it mushy, add it to the Instant Pot after the beef has finished pressure cooking. The residual heat will gently cook the broccoli, preserving its vibrant color and crispness.
Thicken the sauce with cornstarch slurry: To achieve a glossy and thick sauce, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the instant pot after adding the cooked beef and broccoli. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions: For an added touch of flavor and presentation, sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. These toppings bring a nutty aroma and freshness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
- Serve Instant Pott beef and broccoli over a bed of steamed white rice for a classic takeout-style meal. The tender beef and flavorful sauce pair perfectly with the fluffy rice.
- If you are looking for a low-carb option, then serve the beef and broccoli over cauliflower rice. It is a healthier alternative that still provides a delicious base for the dish.
- For a noodle dish, toss the beef and broccoli with some cooked lo mein or chow mein noodles. The sauce will coat the noodles beautifully and create a satisfying and delicious meal.
- Add some extra vegetables to the mix by serving the beef and broccoli over a stir-fry medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. The colorful assortment of vegetables will add freshness and crunch to the dish.
- If you are feeling adventurous, serve in lettuce cups for a fun and light option. Simply spoon the beef and broccoli mixture into iceberg or butter lettuce leaves, and enjoy the flavors and textures of this healthy wrap.
Recipe Variation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This delicious instant pot beef and broccoli recipe is absolutely perfect as is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:
Spicy: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeno to the recipe for an extra kick of heat. This is perfect for those who enjoy spicy flavors.
Garlic: Double the amount of minced garlic and add a sprinkle of garlic powder to really enhance the garlic flavor in the dish. This variation is for those who can’t get enough of the delicious taste of garlic.
Ginger: Add 1-2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger to the recipe for a burst of aromatic and zesty flavor. This is a great option for those who enjoy the unique taste of ginger.
Sesame seeds: Drizzle some sesame oil over the cooked beef and broccoli and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty and fragrant twist. This is perfect for those who love the rich, toasty flavor of sesame.
Teriyaki sauce: Make a homemade teriyaki sauce using soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch, and toss the cooked beef and broccoli in the sauce before serving. This is great for those who prefer a sweeter and more savory flavor in their beef and broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef for this recipe. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to guarantee that the beef is fully cooked.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh ones. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly longer for frozen broccoli, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking or undercooking. Always taste a floret to make sure it’s done.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can. Although this recipe calls for flank steak, you can go for chuck roast, sirloin steak, or any other beef cut you like with thin strips. In fact, you can even use chicken! However, keep in mind that different cuts of beef may require different cooking times. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and make sure that the beef is tender and fully cooked.
Can I substitute soy sauce with a different sauce?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with a different sauce. Some possible alternatives include tamari sauce, coconut aminos, teriyaki sauce, or any gluten-free sauce you like too. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.
How to Store Leftover Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
To store leftovers of instant pot beef and broccoli, first allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. The beef and broccoli can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When you are ready to eat the leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or beef broth to moisten the dish if it has dried out.
Unfortunately, this recipe may not be suitable for freezing. The texture of the broccoli may become mushy and the beef may become tough and dry after freezing and thawing. It is best to enjoy the leftovers within a few days rather than attempting to freeze them.
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Recipe Card
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (Tastes Good Every Time!)
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 cups – water
- 3 tbsp. – better than bullion Beef paste
- 1 cup – low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup – sesame oil
- 2 tbsp. – minced garlic
- 1 tbsp. – minced ginger
- ½ tsp. – red pepper flakes
- ½ cup – brown sugar
For the Beef
- 2 tbsp. – olive oil
- 3 – 4 lbs. – Flank sliced
For the Cornstarch Slurry
- ¼ cup – water
- 3 tbsp. - potato (or corn starch)
- 1 - 2 lbs. – broccoli florets
Instructions
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
How to Make the Sauce
- Start by preparing the sauce in a small bowl. Mix together the water, bullion paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic and ginger, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Set the sauce aside until you are ready to use it.
How to Sear Beef in Instant Pot
- To prepare the meat, begin by slicing the flank steak across the grain. This will help to make the meat more tender.
- Press the sauté function on your Instant Pot and wait for the indicator light to turn to “Hot.” This will make sure that the meat browns properly.
- Place a small batch of beef strips into the Instant Pot and sear them on each side until they are browned. It is important to do this in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which would cause the meat to release too much juice and take longer to brown.
How to Cook Beef and Broccoli in Instant Pot
- Once the meat is browned, turn off the sauté function and return all of the meat to the Instant Pot.
- To cook this dish, begin by pouring the prepared sauce over the meat in the Instant Pot and stir everything together. Make sure that the meat is coated evenly.
- Close the lid and set the cook cycle to High Pressure for 10 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook thoroughly and become tender.
- Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- While the pressure is being released, prepare a starch mixture by mixing ¼ cup of water with 3 tablespoons of either potato or cornstarch. This will help to thicken the sauce.
- Now remove the lid and add the starch mixture to the cooked meat. Stir everything together to combine.
- Press the sauté function on your Instant Pot and bring the sauce with meat to a boil. The sauce will thicken a bit. Turn the Instant Pot sauté function off.
- Finally, add the broccoli florets to the Instant Pot and mix everything once more. Close the Instant Pot lid and let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the broccoli to steam and become tender.
- Serve the beef and broccoli over rice and garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
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