Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli with Honey Garlic Sauce

Looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that tastes better than takeout?

Say hello to your new favorite weeknight meal: Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli with Honey Garlic Sauce.

It’s savory, slightly sweet, and ultra-tender, all made in your trusty pressure cooker.

This version is healthier than takeout and takes less time. With simple pantry staples and tender beef, this recipe brings all the flavor without the fuss.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this Instant Pot version of a classic takeout favorite hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

• Fast and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot.
• Healthier than takeout: No deep frying, less sodium, and full control over ingredients.
• Deliciously balanced: The honey garlic sauce is the perfect mix of sweet and savory.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.
• Great for meal prep: Makes tasty leftovers that reheat well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• Flank steak or sirloin – thinly sliced against the grain for tender bites
• Broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, steamed separately for best texture
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic gives the sauce a bold flavor
• Honey – adds natural sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce
• Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari – base of the savory sauce
• Sesame oil – a few drops go a long way to deepen flavor
• Cornstarch + water – to make a slurry for thickening the sauce
• Optional toppings – green onions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked beef and broccoli dish every time:

1. Sauté the beef: Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a bit of oil and brown the sliced beef in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot—this helps develop flavor.
2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Pressure cook: Return all the beef to the pot and pour the sauce over it. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let it naturally release for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.
4. Steam the broccoli: While the beef is cooking, steam your broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp. You can use the microwave or stovetop.
5. Thicken the sauce: After releasing pressure, turn the Instant Pot back to “Sauté.” Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce bubble until it thickens.
6. Combine and serve: Add the steamed broccoli to the pot and gently stir to coat everything in the sauce.

Tips for Best Results

• Slice the beef thinly and against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Avoid overcooking the broccoli by steaming it separately and adding it at the end.
• Adjust seasoning to taste by starting with less honey or soy sauce and tweaking as needed.
• Use fresh garlic and good-quality honey for the best flavor.
• Add heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha if you prefer it spicy.

Serving Suggestions

This beef and broccoli dish pairs well with:

• Steamed jasmine rice – classic and fluffy
• Brown rice – a healthier, whole-grain option
• Cauliflower rice – for a low-carb twist
• Rice noodles – for a different texture and taste
• A side of egg rolls or dumplings – for a complete takeout-style meal

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions (without the broccoli) for up to 3 months. Add fresh broccoli when reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts until hot.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just steam it separately and add it at the end so it doesn’t get mushy.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze (without broccoli) for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this on the stovetop: sauté the beef, add the sauce, simmer for 10–15 minutes, thicken with cornstarch slurry, then stir in steamed broccoli.