Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli Recipe

If you crave takeout-style comfort but want something healthier, you have to try this Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli! It’s packed with tender strips of beef, crisp broccoli, and a slightly sweet, savory sauce that clings to every bite—all made effortlessly in your pressure cooker and ready faster than delivery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Lightning Fast and Easy: You get restaurant-worthy Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli with minimal prep and just one pot to clean up afterwards.
  • Healthier Than Takeout: No mystery oils or additives here—just simple, wholesome ingredients you can feel good about serving.
  • Easily Customizable: Whether you’re keto, paleo, or simply picky about your veggies, this recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your needs.
  • Bold, Flavorful Sauce: The magical combination of soy, ginger, and sesame oil infuses every bite with umami-packed goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the heart and soul behind this Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli! Every ingredient is chosen for maximum flavor, color, and texture—without any unnecessary fuss. Here’s what makes this dish totally irresistible.

  • Beef chuck roast or flank steak: Sliced thinly across the grain, these cuts become melt-in-your-mouth tender quickly in the Instant Pot.
  • Sea salt & black pepper: A little seasoning wakes up the flavor of the beef from the start.
  • Sesame oil: Just a touch adds delicious depth and that classic stir-fry aroma.
  • Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they stay perfectly crisp-tender in the final dish.
  • Xanthan gum or arrowroot starch (optional): Either thickener creates that glossy, irresistible sauce—choose what fits your diet.
  • Cold water: Used with the thickener to make a simple slurry for finishing the sauce.
  • Garlic and ginger: These aromatics pack a punch, transforming the sauce with just a bit of chopping and grating.
  • Low sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos): Brings salty, umami notes and keeps the sauce beautifully balanced.
  • Beef broth: Bumps up the meaty flavor—use a good-quality stock if you can.
  • Erythritol, monk fruit, or brown sugar: Just enough to balance the savory with a sweet hint, or leave out for a less sweet version.
  • Red pepper chili flakes or Sriracha (optional): Add a little kick to your Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli (totally customizable for your spice level!).
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

You don’t have to stick to the classic—one of the best things about Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli is how flexible it is! Tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, whatever you have on hand, or any dietary goals you’re following.

  • Swap the Protein: Try thin-sliced chicken breast, turkey, or even tofu for a lighter but still hearty version.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Snow peas, carrots, bell peppers, or baby corn are delicious additions for more crunch and color in every bite.
  • Make it Paleo or Keto: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and keep the sweetener low-carb or omit entirely if preferred.
  • Spice it Up: Drizzle in extra Sriracha or toss in more chili flakes if you like your Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli on the fiery side!

How to Make Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by seasoning your sliced beef with salt, pepper, and just a touch of sesame oil. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in the Instant Pot on SAUTE, then work in batches to sear the beef for about one to two minutes per batch. This simple step really deepens the flavor and gives your meat that classic, crave-worthy color.

Step 2: Mix and Pour the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—think soy sauce, broth, sweetener, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over your seared beef in the Instant Pot, making sure everything’s coated. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling like your favorite takeout spot!

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Cancel the SAUTE setting and switch to MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK (HIGH) for just 4 minutes. Pop on the lid, turn the valve to SEAL, and let that magical pressure-cooking power transform the beef into tender perfection. While the Instant Pot works its magic, you can prep your broccoli.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

While your beef finishes under pressure, microwave your broccoli florets with a splash of water until they’re bright green and fork-tender—about 2 to 3 minutes. If you prefer, you can skip the microwave and cook the broccoli right in the pot for a softer bite.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce and Combine

Once the timer beeps, carefully quick-release the pressure, then lift the lid. Make a quick slurry by whisking xanthan gum or arrowroot with cold water, then stir it into the pot while set to SAUTE. Toss in the broccoli and cook just until the sauce is glossy and thickened and the broccoli is piping hot.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Now is the time to adjust your seasonings—does it need a little extra soy sauce, sweetness, or spice? Serve your Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli hot with cauliflower rice, zoodles, or your favorite steamed rice, and enjoy a meal that truly tastes like a treat.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli

  • Slice Against the Grain: Cut your beef thinly across the grain for ultra-tender bites—this really makes a difference in texture and mouthfeel.
  • Quick Broccoli Steam: Microwave your broccoli separately for the perfect crisp-tender result, or stir it in at the end for a softer, more saucy finish.
  • Slurry Secrets: Always mix your thickener with cold water before adding to the pot—this avoids lumps and gives your sauce that gorgeous, silky sheen.
  • Customize to Taste: Taste and tweak your sauce at the end—you’re just one splash of soy or a dash of spice away from your ideal bowl!

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli

Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli with toasted sesame seeds or finely sliced green onions. A handful of fresh cilantro gives the dish a pop of color, and if you like things spicy, a final dusting of chili flakes is always welcome.

Side Dishes

This dish loves a simple base to soak up that savory sauce! Steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) make wonderful partners for this saucy stir-fry. For extra crunch, try serving with pickled vegetables or a light Asian-style slaw on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Level up your dinner by serving Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli in individual bowls over your favorite grain, or tuck it inside lettuce wraps for a fun, hand-held twist. For parties or meal prep, spoon the beef and broccoli into meal-prep containers, layer with colorful veggies, and top each with a slice of lime or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that “wow” factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight storage containers. Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors only deepen as it sits—making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier!

Freezing

This recipe is absolutely freezer-friendly! Portion cooled beef and broccoli into resealable freezer bags or containers. Lay them flat for easy stacking, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. The microwave also works wonderfully—just cover loosely, heat in short bursts, and stir in between to keep everything juicy and perfectly warmed.

FAQs

  1. What cut of beef is best for Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli?

    Flank steak and boneless beef chuck roast both work beautifully in this recipe. Flank steak has a rich beefy flavor and becomes ultra-tender when sliced thin and cooked under pressure, while chuck roast offers a melt-in-your-mouth result. The key is slicing thinly across the grain for best texture.

  2. Can I use frozen broccoli or beef?

    Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, add it straight into the Instant Pot after releasing pressure—no need to thaw. If your beef is frozen, let it thaw partially so you can slice it thin; then proceed as directed. Cooking time may increase by a minute if the beef is still very cold.

  3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

    Yes! Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli is ideal for meal prepping. Portion leftovers into containers with rice or cauliflower rice, store in the fridge, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-reheat lunches or dinners all week long.

  4. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

    To thicken your sauce, increase the amount of xanthan gum or arrowroot starch in your slurry and add it gradually while stirring. For a thinner sauce, simply reduce or omit the thickener, or add a splash more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as making your own takeout favorites at home, and Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli proves just how easy (and delicious) it can be. Give it a try, play with the flavors, and make it your new weeknight staple—I promise you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!

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Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Instant Pot, Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce come together in this satisfying dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 lbs boneless beef chuck roast or flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
  • 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh minced or grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (use coconut aminos for paleo or keto)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon erythritol or monk fruit sweetener (or brown sugar if not low carb)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/41/2 teaspoon red pepper chili flake or Sriracha (optional)

For Thickening:

  • 1 tsp xantham gum or arrowroot starch
  • 1 tablespoon cold water

Additional:

  • 3 1/2 cups broccoli florets
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Instant Pot Version: Season beef with salt, pepper, and sesame oil. Sear beef in Instant Pot on SAUTE mode. Whisk together sauce ingredients and pour over beef. Pressure cook on HIGH for 4 minutes. Quick release pressure, add thickening agent, and broccoli. Saute until sauce thickens. Adjust seasonings and serve hot with preferred sides.
  2. Slow Cooker Version: Season beef and combine with sauce in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 45 minutes – 2 hours or LOW for 1.5 – 3 hours. Add thickening agent and broccoli. Continue cooking until sauce thickens. Adjust seasonings and serve with desired sides.

Notes

  • You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper chili flakes or Sriracha.
  • For a lower-carb option, use xantham gum as the thickening agent.
  • Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or additional seasonings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: Approximately 350 calories
  • Sugar: Approximately 2g
  • Sodium: Approximately 800mg
  • Fat: Approximately 20g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
  • Fiber: Approximately 2g
  • Protein: Approximately 30g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 80mg

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