This Instant Pot Steamed Broccoli recipe results in perfectly cooked broccoli in just 10 minutes! Broccoli may be high on the list of “nay” vegetables for kids, but fresh, steamed broccoli (especially with a light dressing) takes this veggie to the “yay” list. Even better, steaming broccoli it in the Instant Pot is so quick, easy, and nearly effortless!
Broccoli is loaded with nutrients and is low in calories and fat, so it’s a perfect addition to recipes and as a side, especially when you’re counting macros. It’s delicious on its own, with simple seasonings, or loaded with cheese. Fun Fact: Did you know that broccoli was bred from wild cabbage in the sixth century BCE in the Mediterranean and Asia? It was then cultivated in ancient Rome and made its way to England and the Americas in the 1700s.
Health Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with vitamins and other nutrients. Here are just a few of the many health benefits associated with eating broccoli:
Lowers cholesterol: Broccoli has been shown to help lower bad cholesterol, thus reducing risk of heart disease and cancer.Good for eye health: Beta carotene in broccoli can boost eyesight, especially in people with low vitamin A intake. It also contains other nutrients that can help reduce the risk of age-related eye problems.Good source of fiber: One cup of broccoli contains about 10% of the daily value of fiber, which is great for gut health and can help with weight loss.
Steamed Broccoli Nutrition Facts
Your nutrition facts may vary slightly from those listed, but this chart is a good rule of thumb if you are counting calories or carbs:
Why Steam Broccoli in the Instant Pot
After I started using the Instant Pot to cook broccoli, it quickly became my favorite method. I love it because:
Steaming your broccoli in the pressure cooker is so easy! It only takes a few steps for perfect broccoli.This method is unbelievably fast, not to mention is almost entirely hands-off.With an Instant Pot, you get the perfect texture for your steamed broccoli every time. Whether you like your broccoli very soft or with a little crunch, it’s easy to make your broccoli exactly how you like it.
How to Make Steamed Broccoli in an Instant Pot
Cutting the Broccoli
Using these easy steps learn how to cut broccoli the right way:
Steaming Broccoli
Add a cup of water and steamer basket: Pour cold water into the Instant Pot, then add the plastic steamer basket filled with broccoli on top. (pic 2)Set cooking time: Close the lid, set the vent to sealing position. For soft broccoli, set the Instant Pot for 0 minutes, High Pressure. For slightly crunchy broccoli, set it to 0 minutes on Low pressure. Be aware that the Instant Pot will take 5-10 minutes to reach pressure, so your cook time will not actually be 0 minutes. (pic 3)Release pressure manually (QR): Follow the quick release instructions of your cooker. Open the lid once the pin drops and remove broccoli immediately to prevent overcooking. (pic 4)
What accessories do I need for Instant Pot Broccoli?
Steamer baskets work great for this recipe. You will need a silicone steamer basket (or a metal steamer). If you have neither, check out the section below:
How to Store Cooked Broccoli
Refrigerator: Keep your broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge 3-5 days.Freezer: Cooked broccoli can be stored in the freezer up to 12 months. Keep in mind though that thawed broccoli looses its crunch. It’s probably best for adding to soups, sauces and pasta dishes, such as this Broccoli Cheddar Pasta.
Cooking Tips & Notes
Broccoli is not soft enough - Place the broccoli back in the Instant Pot and seal the lid, but don’t cook it. The heat from the inside of the Instant Pot will help soften it.Salt - Add salt and seasonings after cooking to ensure the broccoli becomes tender.Meal Prep: This recipe can easily be doubled with the same cooking time and instructions.Quick Pressure Release: To prevent the broccoli from overcooking, after the cook time is up, manually release the pressure by following your cooker’s quick release instructions. Alternate Method- Microwave: To steam broccoli in microwave, add broccoli and ⅛ - ¼ cup water to a heat-safe bowl or container.Heat for 3 minutes. Check broccoli, and if it’s not soft enough, heat for 1 to 2 more minute.
More Instant Pot Basics
These recipes are part of the Instant Pot Basics Recipes collection:
📖 Recipe
