Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to pull together, let me introduce you to this Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli. This dish combines tender flank steak with vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious, savory sauce infused with fresh ginger and garlic. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you get all those rich, deep flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for weeknights when you want something satisfying, wholesome, and downright delicious with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in building the dish’s fantastic layers of taste and texture. From the savory beef to the fragrant ginger and garlic, everything comes together beautifully to create a dish that feels special yet easy to make.

• 1 tbsp neutral oil: A light oil like vegetable or canola helps sauté the aromatics without overpowering the flavors.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish a pungent, aromatic kick that’s just irresistible.
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger: Ginger adds a warm, zesty brightness that perfectly complements the beef.
• 12 oz flank steak, cut into strips or cubes: This lean cut cooks quickly and stays tender in the Instant Pot.
• 1/4 cup water: Used for deglazing the pot, it lifts all those tasty browned bits from the bottom.
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce, adding depth without overwhelming saltiness.
• 1 tsp brown sugar or honey: A touch of sweetness balances the savory and tangy elements.
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty fragrance that takes the dish to the next level.
• 3/4 cup water or beef broth: Provides the cooking liquid and enriches the sauce base.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch blended with 1 tbsp water: Creates the perfect glossy, thick sauce that clings to the beef and broccoli.
• 12 oz steamed broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, these bring a vibrant pop of color and just the right crunch.
• 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish (optional): A small finish that adds texture and visual appeal.
• Cooked rice for serving: The perfect vessel to soak up all that amazing sauce.

How to Make Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by turning on your Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Add the neutral oil to the pot, then toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until they release their incredible aroma. This quick step infuses the oil with flavor that will coat the beef and soak into the sauce later on—trust me, this little action makes a world of difference for your Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Deglaze

Now it’s time to add the flank steak pieces to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, stirring occasionally so each piece gets a nice sear. This caramelization brings richer flavor and a beautiful texture. Once browned, pour in the 1/4 cup water to deglaze the pot. Scrape the bottom gently with your spatula to lift those flavorful browned bits off the pot surface—this step prevents any burning during pressure cooking and amps up the taste.

Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients and Pressure Cook

Pour in the reduced-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, toasted sesame oil, and the 3/4 cup of water or beef broth. Give everything a good stir so the beef is evenly coated and the flavors start mingling. Turn off the SAUTE function, secure the Instant Pot lid, and set the valve to SEALING. Choose the PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL mode and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Keep in mind it will take around 5 minutes for the pot to build pressure before the timer starts. When the cooking cycle finishes, carefully do a quick pressure release and remove the lid.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

With the lid off, turn the Instant Pot back to SAUTE. Stir in the cornstarch slurry—a blend of cornstarch and water—while stirring constantly. The sauce will start to thicken within 1 to 2 minutes, turning gorgeously glossy. If it still feels a bit thin, feel free to add another tablespoon of the slurry and continue cooking until you reach that perfect comforting consistency. This step transforms the broth into a shiny sauce that clings beautifully to every bite.

Step 5: Finish with Broccoli, Serve, and Garnish

Turn off the pot’s heat, then gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets so they soak up the flavorful sauce without getting mushy. Serve the beef and broccoli piping hot over freshly cooked rice. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top and drizzle a tiny bit more toasted sesame oil if you like that nutty aroma. This final detail really elevates your Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli to restaurant-quality deliciousness right at home.

How to Serve Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds add delightful texture and a nutty flavor punch. For an extra pop of freshness, finely sliced green onions or a few chili flakes can bring a vibrant contrast. These little touches make your Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli feel even more special and visually inviting.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic steamed white or brown rice—the perfect canvas for that irresistible sauce. If you want to switch things up, try serving it alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly pickled vegetables also provide a refreshing balance to the warm, savory beef and broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style feast, serve the beef and broccoli straight from the Instant Pot in a large beautiful bowl so everyone can help themselves. If you’re aiming for a casual gathering or lunchboxes, pack the beef, broccoli, and rice into compartmentalized containers for a perfect reheatable meal. Alternatively, serve the beef and broccoli over noodles, or even stuff it into lettuce cups for a fun handheld option!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier. Just be sure to keep the sauce and broccoli together to maintain that perfect texture and taste.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover beef and broccoli in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip pouch for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to slightly undercook the broccoli at first so it doesn’t get too mushy after thawing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve flavors and texture.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to heat evenly without drying out the beef. Your Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli tastes just as delightful the second time around with these tips.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is perfect for this recipe due to its quick cooking and tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just be mindful of cooking times and adjust if using tougher cuts.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great and saves prep time. Just steam it separately and add it at the final step to prevent it from overcooking and turning mushy.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double the ingredients, but cook the beef in batches before pressure cooking to ensure it browns well. Cooking time in the Instant Pot generally stays the same, but it might take longer to come to pressure.

How spicy is this dish?

This Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is not spicy by default. However, if you love heat, you can easily add chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha either when cooking or as a garnish.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Easy Ginger Garlic Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli a try soon—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate while being incredibly quick and accessible. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or seeking a fuss-free weekender dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor with every bite. Once you make it, it just might become your go-to meal that friends and family keep asking for. Enjoy every delicious mouthful!

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