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Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

A quick and easy family favorite, this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe features tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef and Broccoli Ingredients
  • 1.5 lb chuck roast or flank steak, sliced into thin strips Chuck for its marbling, which adds flavor
  • 1 tbsp canola oil Can substitute with vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly
  • 3/4 cup beef broth Homemade is best, but store-bought works fine
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce Use low-sodium for a healthier option
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil Adds an authentic nutty flavor
  • 1 lb broccoli, cut into florets Fresh is preferred for texture
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch For thickening; can substitute with arrowroot powder

Method
 

Sauté the Beef
  1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and add the canola oil, allowing it to heat until it shimmers (about 2 minutes).
  2. Brown the beef in batches, being careful not to crowd the pot. This should take about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.
Deglaze the Pot
  1. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and lift any browned bits.
Combine the Sauce
  1. Add minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the pot. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely (about 1-2 minutes).
Pressure Cook
  1. Return the browned beef to the pot, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Lock the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select Pressure Cook (High) and set the timer for 10 minutes.
  2. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to venting.
Thicken the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Stir this into the pot until the sauce thickens (should take about 2 minutes).
Add the Broccoli
  1. Finally, add your broccoli florets. Stir briefly to mix, and cover the pot for 3 minutes (if fresh) or 5 minutes (if frozen).
Taste & Serve
  1. Carefully open the Instant Pot, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve over steaming rice or fluffy noodles.

Notes

For a burst of flavor, finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.