Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a quick, delicious, and fuss-free weeknight dinner, you’re going to love this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It’s one of those meals that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but you’ll actually have it on the table in under an hour. Tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a sauce that’s packed with that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a little heat—trust me, this recipe will become one of your go-tos!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve found that the magic in this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe really comes from the sauce ingredients working in harmony. Using flank steak keeps the beef tender when pressure cooked, and fresh broccoli gives just the right snap. Here are the essentials to gather before you start:

• Soy sauce: Choose gluten-free if needed, and try not to skimp—the soy adds deep savory flavor.
• Beef broth: Adds extra richness; homemade or store-bought both work fine.
• Dark brown sugar: For that subtle sweetness that balances the salty and tangy flavors.
• Hoisin sauce: A little goes a long way to give that signature slightly sweet Asian sauce vibe.
• Seasoned rice vinegar: Adds brightness and tang to brighten the whole dish.
• Sesame oil: This is where the nutty aroma comes from; I love the flavor it adds at the end.
• Red pepper flakes: Adjust the heat to your taste—the perfect kick without overpowering.
• Ground ginger: Fresh ginger would be ideal, but ground works great and is super convenient.
• Garlic: Six cloves might seem like a lot, but trust me, garlic makes this dish sing.
• Flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness and fast cooking.
• Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce right in the Instant Pot; no extra steps needed.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh is best for that crisp-tender texture; adjust size to your liking.
• Cooked rice: Essential for soaking up all that amazing sauce.
• Chopped green onions: For a bright, fresh garnish that finishes things beautifully.

Variations

I love that this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe is so versatile. Over time, I’ve tweaked it to suit different moods and diets, and honestly, it’s fun to mix things up!

• Use different cuts of beef: I sometimes swap flank steak for sirloin or skirt steak when I want a slightly different texture or if that’s what’s on sale.
• Make it spicy: One time, I added a splash of chili garlic sauce and my family went crazy for the added heat and zing.
• Swap broccoli for other veggies: You can try bok choy, snap peas, or even cauliflower—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Make it gluten-free: Just be sure to pick gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin, and it’s perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.

How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Beef for Maximum Flavor

Begin by whisking together your soy sauce, half of the beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and minced garlic. This marinade is where all the flavor magic starts, so take a minute to enjoy mixing those aromas. Then, stir in your sliced flank steak, making sure every piece is covered. I usually let mine marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, but if you have time, popping it in the fridge for several hours really deepens the flavors.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Beef

Pour the steak and marinade into your Instant Pot, lock the lid, and set it to HIGH pressure for 6 minutes. This might surprise you, but the flank steak becomes very tender with this short cooking time—and it won’t get chewy like it sometimes does with other methods. Once the time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes. This step helps keep your beef juicy and tender, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce and Cook the Broccoli

Switch your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode, and whisk together the cornstarch with the remaining broth until smooth—no lumps, I promise! Slowly whisk this into the pot, stirring gently to combine. Then toss in your broccoli florets, cover the pot (you can use the glass lid if you have one, or just a regular lid), and let the broccoli steam for about 10 minutes. I like to check it around that mark because some family members prefer their broccoli more crisp-tender, while others want it softer—so adjust accordingly.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serving

Give the sauce a taste and season with a pinch more soy sauce or a bit of salt if you think it needs it. Then, serve this saucy, tender beef and broccoli over fluffy cooked rice and sprinkle with chopped green onions. I absolutely love how this combo always brings everyone to the table hungry and happy.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor, but you can also add a light dusting of toasted sesame seeds to take it to the next level. Sometimes, a quick drizzle of extra sesame oil just before serving adds a lovely nutty aroma that really makes guests ask, “What’s in this?”

Side Dishes

While the Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe is fantastic on its own, I often pair it with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. If you want to add more veggies, a simple cucumber salad or pickled carrots and daikon on the side offer a refreshing crunch balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner party, I’ve served this beef and broccoli over herb-infused quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Plating it in shallow bowls with the sauce generously ladled over looks beautiful and invites everyone to dig in family-style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I’ve had leftover Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli, I pop it into airtight containers and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, making for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well. I separate portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the broccoli can get a bit softer after thawing and reheating, so I sometimes add fresh steamed broccoli when serving from frozen.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems thick, splash a little water or broth while reheating to keep it saucy and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe, I was blown away by just how much flavor you get with so little hands-on time. It really changed my weeknight dinner game. It’s comforting, quick, and something everyone in my family asks for again and again. I hope you’ll try it and enjoy the simple joy of dinner done right—fast, flavorful, and fuss-free!

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