Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

The Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is a crowd-pleaser that brings all the delicious flavors of take-out right to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a quick and satisfying meal that can be customized with your favorite vegetables. With its tender beef and vibrant broccoli, it’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing. Plus, cooking it in an Instant Pot saves you time and effort while ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar creates a savory-sweet sauce that’s irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the broccoli, it’s a nutritious choice for dinner.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup after meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe successful, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have items to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This versatile appliance speeds up cooking time while ensuring meat stays tender and juicy.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface for slicing meat and vegetables safely keeps your prep efficient.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing beef into thin strips for even cooking.

Ingredients

The most popular Instant Pot recipe! Much better than take-out! Feel free to upgrade and add mushrooms, bell peppers and anything you like.

Meat

• 1 1/2 lb chuck roast or flank steak (sliced into thin strips)

Oil and Seasonings

• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil

Vegetables

• 1 pound broccoli (cut into florets)

Thickening Agent

• 3 tbsp water
• 3 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Put canola oil in the Instant Pot and select Saute. When the oil is ready, brown the meat in batches until each piece is nicely seared.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in the beef broth, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Lock the lid in place. Set the Instant Pot to cook at high pressure for 10 minutes. Ensure that the valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 4: Quick Release Pressure

When cooking time ends, do a quick pressure release by setting the valve to venting. Once the valve drops, carefully remove the lid.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the pot until smooth.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Select Saute again on your Instant Pot. Add broccoli florets to the pot and stir gently to combine with the sauce.

Step 7: Cook Broccoli

Close the Instant Pot lid again. Allow fresh broccoli to cook for about 3 minutes or if using frozen broccoli, let it cook for about 5 minutes on sauté mode without pressure cooking.

Step 8: Serve

Open the lid carefully after cooking. Serve your delicious Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple meal or something more elaborate, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves or tortillas to create a fresh wrap. Fill them with beef, broccoli, and any extra toppings like shredded carrots or cilantro.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and broccoli with cooked noodles for an alternative take. Choose egg noodles or rice noodles for added texture.

As a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Create a stir-fry bowl by adding quinoa or brown rice as the base. Top it with the beef and broccoli for a nutritious meal.

With Extra Veggies

• Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas to your serving for added color and nutrition. This customization makes each bite even more enjoyable.

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How to Perfect Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

To ensure your Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cut Meat Thinly: Slice your chuck roast or flank steak into thin strips. This helps the meat cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
• Sauté Properly: Make sure to brown the meat well during the sauté step. This adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality soy sauce can significantly enhance the taste of your dish.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If you prefer more tender beef, consider adding an extra minute to the cooking time for optimal tenderness.
• Mix Cornstarch Well: When adding cornstarch and water, stir thoroughly until there are no lumps. This ensures a smooth sauce consistency.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Keep an eye on your broccoli while it cooks on sauté mode to maintain its vibrant color and crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice complements the rich flavors of beef and broccoli perfectly.
2. Fried Rice: Quick fried rice with veggies adds another layer of flavor while making good use of leftovers.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a delightful contrast to the tender beef, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and freshness to balance the main dish.
5. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar gives a light touch to your plate.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the Asian theme while providing warmth before or alongside your meal.
7. Chilled Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods serve as an easy finger food that pairs well with Asian cuisine.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies add brightness to your plate, cutting through the richness of beef and broccoli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to subpar results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the meat can result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to brown your beef for a richer taste.
• Incorrect Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking the beef can impact texture. Always follow the recommended cooking time for tender results.
• Using Frozen Broccoli Without Adjusting Time: If you use frozen broccoli, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Be sure to cook it for an extra minute or two to achieve the right doneness.
• Not Thinning the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the beef and broccoli well. Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to get a smoother consistency.
• Ignoring Pressure Release Tips: A quick release is essential after cooking. Don’t forget this step, as it affects how well your ingredients meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli.

How do I make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

You can substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This allows you to enjoy this delicious dish without gluten.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for more flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What if my beef is tough after cooking?

If your beef turns out tough, it may have been overcooked. Ensure you follow the correct timing and allow for natural pressure release for tenderness.

Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, while chuck roast or flank steak works best, you can also try sirloin or round steak. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly for quick cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or tweak the sauce to suit your taste preferences. Once you try this dish at home, you’ll find it’s just as satisfying—and much healthier—than take-out!