Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a game-changer! It’s the most popular recipe on Corrie Cooks, and once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a sweet-savory sauce, this dish brings the taste of your favorite takeout right to your table.

Whether you’re looking to get your kids to eat more vegetables or need a quick meal for busy weeknights, this recipe is your answer. Forget restaurant trips—your Instant Pot will deliver the perfect beef and broccoli in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes of active cooking time.
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with protein, veggies, and a flavorful sauce.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this dish.

What Cut of Beef Should You Use?

This recipe works best with cuts like chuck roast, flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin steak. Each provides tender, flavorful results when paired with the sweet and savory sauce.

Pro Tip: Ask your butcher to slice the beef thinly for you. If you’re slicing it yourself, place the beef in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up. Then, cut against the grain for tender, easy-to-chew slices.

How to Prepare the Beef

Thinly slicing the beef is essential for even cooking and flavor infusion.

• Against the Grain: Cutting against the muscle fibers ensures a tender bite.
• Chill Before Cutting: Slightly frozen meat is easier to slice cleanly and evenly.

FAQs & Customizations

1. Do I need to clean the pot after browning the beef?

No! The browned bits (fond) left in the pot add depth and richness to the sauce. Deglaze them with beef broth for maximum flavor.

2. Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Add an 8-ounce pack of sliced mushrooms when adding the broccoli for an earthy twist.

3. Can I add ginger or spice?

Yes! Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for extra flavor and heat.

4. Is sesame oil necessary?

While optional, sesame oil enhances the dish’s authentic Asian flavor. If unavailable, you can skip it, but the flavor won’t be as robust.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.

6. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just increase the sauté time to 5 minutes instead of 3.

7. Can I use frozen beef?

You can, but it will require a longer sauté time to ensure the beef thaws and browns properly before proceeding with the recipe.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Jasmine or Brown Rice: Classic and comforting.
• Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative.
• Mashed Potatoes: Try Instant Pot mashed potatoes for a creamy pairing.
• Carrot Mash: Adds a touch of sweetness.

Looking for more ideas? Check out “What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli” for 15 side dish inspirations.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs thinly sliced beef (chuck roast, flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin steak)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen broccoli)
• ¾ cup beef broth (or water)
• ½ cup soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey/white sugar)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (optional)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or canola oil

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   • Thinly slice the beef against the grain.
   • Wash and prepare the broccoli florets (or measure out frozen broccoli).
2. Sauté the Beef:
   • Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode.
   • Add olive oil and heat for 1 minute.
   • Place the beef in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Add the beef broth, scraping the bottom to release browned bits.
   • Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil (if using).
4. Pressure Cook:
   • Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 10 minutes.
   • Once done, perform a quick pressure release.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
   • Set the pot back to “Sauté” mode.
   • Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (2-3 minutes).
6. Cook the Broccoli:
   • Add the broccoli florets.
     • For fresh broccoli: Sauté for 3 minutes.
     • For frozen broccoli: Sauté for 5 minutes.
   • If using pre-steamed broccoli, simply stir it in.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the beef and broccoli to a serving dish.
   • Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
   • Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Note: The broccoli may soften over time.

Nutrition:

Calories: 482kcal Carbohydrates: 34g Protein: 43g Fat: 20g Saturated Fat: 5g Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g Monounsaturated Fat: 8g Trans Fat: 1g Cholesterol: 102mg Sodium: 1922mg Potassium: 1061mg Fiber: 3g Sugar: 20g Vitamin A: 707IU Vitamin C: 102mg Calcium: 119mg Iron: 4mg