Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (Quick and Flavorful Dinner!)
The aroma of stir-fry once filled our home, drawing my family to the kitchen as my mother whipped up dinner in minutes, sharing stories along the way. Beef and broccoli wasn’t just a meal—it was a tradition that brought us together.
Now, balancing work and family, I rely on the Instant Pot to recreate those cherished moments in just 30 minutes, capturing the same rich flavors and warmth without the long hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful Combination: Tender beef paired with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
- One-Pot Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness and heat to your preference.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
The Story Behind the Recipe
When I first used an Instant Pot, I wanted to recreate the home-cooked flavors of my childhood, especially my mother’s beloved beef and broccoli.
After experimenting, I found the perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Now, every bite brings back cherished memories while making busy nights easier.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1½ pounds beef chuck roast or flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain.
- 1 pound broccoli florets: Fresh is preferred; if using frozen, thaw before adding.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Reduces overall sodium content.
- 1 cup beef broth: Preferably low-sodium.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adjust to taste; substitutes include honey or coconut sugar.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Minced or grated.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: For thickening the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Divided; one for sautéing, one for flavoring.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or chili oil for added heat.
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Slice beef thinly against the grain. Toss with cornstarch until evenly coated; this ensures a tender texture and helps thicken the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Once hot, sauté minced garlic and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add beef to the pot in batches, browning each side for about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in beef broth and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance flavor.
- Pressure Cook: Return beef to the pot. Seal the lid and select ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 10 minutes.
- Quick Release: After cooking, perform a quick release of pressure.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets. Seal the lid and select ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for an additional 2 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Perform another quick release. Set the pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the pot along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and brown sugar. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Slice Against the Grain: Ensures tender beef slices.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let beef sit in soy sauce mixture for a few minutes before cooking to enhance taste.
- Broccoli Texture: For crisper broccoli, steam separately and add just before serving.
- Variations: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 10g |
FAQs About Beef and Broccoli
Can I prepare this in advance?
Certainly! Cook the dish as directed, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve this with?
It’s delicious over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a low-carb option, consider cauliflower rice.
Enjoy Every Bite of This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Enjoy recreating this classic dish with the convenience of your Instant Pot, bringing the flavors of your childhood to your family’s table in no time.
