Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli Over Rice (Easy Weeknight Dinner)

 

When dinner needs to happen fast but you still want something hearty and homemade, this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli over Rice is a go-to. It’s a one-pot meal that delivers big flavor, uses simple ingredients, and comes together with minimal hands-on time — perfect for busy evenings.

This recipe skips takeout but keeps that comforting, savory taste the whole family loves.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy thanks to the Instant Pot

• Budget-friendly using affordable cuts of beef

• Family approved with simple, familiar flavors

• Minimal cleanup (one pot!)

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

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Ingredients

For the Beef & Broccoli

• 1½ lbs beef (flank steak, sirloin, or stew meat), thinly sliced

• 1 cup beef broth

• ½ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)

• ¼ cup brown sugar or honey

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or ½ tsp ground)

• 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

For the Rice

• 2 cups white rice

• 2½ cups water
  (or use leftover rice to save time)

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How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Prepare rice separately according to package directions or in the Instant Pot first. Set aside and keep warm.

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Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot

Add the sliced beef, beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.

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Step 3: Pressure Cook

• Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing

• Cook on Manual / Pressure Cook – High for 10 minutes

• Allow a 5-minute natural release, then carefully quick release the remaining pressure

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Step 4: Add Broccoli & Thicken Sauce

• Add broccoli florets directly to the pot

• Turn on Sauté

• Stir in cornstarch slurry

• Simmer 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender but crisp

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Step 5: Serve

Serve the beef and broccoli over warm rice. Spoon extra sauce over the top.

Optional toppings:

• Sesame seeds

• Green onions

• Red pepper flakes (for heat)

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Tips for Success

• Slice beef thinly against the grain for tender results

• Don’t overcook the broccoli — adding it at the end keeps it bright and fresh

• For extra sauce, double the cornstarch slurry

• Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt

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Make It Your Own

• Swap beef for chicken

• Add bell peppers or snap peas

• Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice

• Make it gluten-free with tamari or coconut aminos

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Why This Is a Perfect Weeknight Meal

This Instant Pot beef and broccoli checks all the boxes — comforting, affordable, and fast. It’s a great alternative to takeout and a recipe you can rely on when time and energy are limited.

If you’re building a collection of simple, family-friendly meals, this one belongs on repeat.