Craving that delicious beef and broccoli takeout flavor, but dreading the wait and questionable ingredients? What if I told you that you can create a restaurant-quality, mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen, with minimal effort? This Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is your answer, delivering tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a flavor-packed sauce that will have everyone begging for seconds. Get ready to say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade perfection!
Gathering Your Star Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s all readily available!
For the Beef:
- 1.5 lbs Flank Steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
For the Ginger Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup Beef Broth
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, minced
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Broccoli:
- 1 head Broccoli, cut into florets
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame Seeds
- Chopped Green Onions
The Magic of the Instant Pot: Why This Recipe Works
The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to creating flavorful meals in a fraction of the time. It infuses the beef with incredible flavor and creates a perfectly thickened sauce, all while keeping the broccoli vibrant and crisp-tender.
Prepping Your Beef for Success
This step is crucial for achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef we all crave. Don’t skip it!
Tenderizing Tips:
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This helps to tenderize the beef and create a beautiful sear.
- Make sure the beef is thinly sliced against the grain. This breaks down the muscle fibers and prevents the beef from becoming tough.
Crafting the Flavorful Ginger Garlic Sauce
The sauce is what truly makes this dish sing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, and it coats every piece of beef and broccoli with deliciousness.
Sauce-Making Secrets:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Whisking the cornstarch with the liquids before adding it to the Instant Pot is key to preventing clumps and ensuring a smooth, glossy sauce.
Step-by-Step to Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Bliss
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your homemade beef and broccoli in no time.
From Prep to Plate:
- Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil to the pot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Pour the ginger garlic sauce over the beef.
- Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully open the Instant Pot. Stir in the broccoli florets.
- Close the lid again and let the broccoli steam for 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired tenderness.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Instant Pot Mastery
Want to take your Instant Pot game to the next level? Here are a few insider tips to help you achieve beef and broccoli perfection every time.
Pro Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked beef can become tough and dry. The 5-minute cook time is perfect for achieving tender, juicy results.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar, red pepper flakes, or garlic to suit your personal preferences.
- Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best flavor. Avoid using powdered versions if possible.
- Searing is Key: Searing the beef adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
- Broccoli Preferences: If you prefer softer broccoli, add it earlier in the cooking process. For crisp-tender broccoli, follow the steaming instructions in the recipe.
Variations to Spice Things Up
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative ways to customize this Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe.
Spice It Up:
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- Spice Level: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Sweeten It: Add a touch more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce.
- Protein Swap: While this recipe is for beef, you might also love trying a similar flavor profile with HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP.
Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal
This Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served with a few simple sides.
Perfect Pairings:
- Rice: Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
- Noodles: Toss with lo mein noodles, udon noodles, or rice noodles.
- Spring Rolls: Add a side of crispy spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Other Dishes You’ll Absolutely Love
If you enjoyed this Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe, you might also like some of my other favorites. For a delightful twist on classic sausage, try my HONEY GARLIC SAUSAGE. Craving chicken? Check out the HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN. And if you are looking for another quick beef dinner, give my Garlic Butter Beef Bites a try, or the ever-popular Chinese Beef & Broccoli recipe!
Why This Recipe Is a Weeknight Winner
Between work, family, and everything else life throws at you, weeknights can be hectic. That’s why this Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is a lifesaver. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Storing and Reheating Like a Pro
Leftovers are a treasure! Here’s how to store and reheat your beef and broccoli to maintain its deliciousness.
Storage Solutions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and broccoli. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Recommendations:
- Reheat in the microwave, in a skillet over medium heat, or in the Instant Pot on the “Sauté” setting.
- Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the beef and broccoli from drying out.
So, there you have it! My Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe – a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait to hear how much you love it! Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound Instant Pot skills. Happy cooking!
What kind of beef is recommended for this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe?
The recipe recommends using 1.5 lbs of flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain, for the best results.
How long should I cook the beef in the Instant Pot?
You should cook the beef in the Instant Pot on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural pressure release, and then a quick release of any remaining pressure.
How do I prevent the sauce from clumping in the Instant Pot?
To prevent clumps, whisk the cornstarch with the liquids (soy sauce, beef broth, etc.) in a separate bowl before adding the sauce to the Instant Pot.
How should I store leftover beef and broccoli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Medium bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula
- serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Flank Steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- ¼ cup Beef Broth
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, minced
- ½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
- 1 head Broccoli, cut into florets
- Cooked Rice or Noodles, for serving
- Sesame Seeds, for garnish optional
- Chopped Green Onions, for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with 1 tbsp cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, rice vinegar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil to the pot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Pour the ginger garlic sauce over the beef.
- Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully open the Instant Pot. Stir in the broccoli florets.
- Close the lid again and let the broccoli steam for 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired tenderness.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.