Instant Pot Broccoli

Name: Instant Pot Broccoli
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3/4 pound broccoli florets (about 2 crowns); 1/2 cup water

Quick and easy instant pot broccoli comes out fork-tender and vibrant green. Making broccoli in the pressure cooker is the best hands-off, no-monitoring method for this nutrient-rich veggie!

Close up photo of Instant Pot Broccoli on a platter

Why this recipe works

Instant pot broccoli is a smart choice when choosing which route to cook your florets. Steaming broccoli preserves all the nutrients this veggie packs which means you are losing any beneficial fiber, vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin K, or iron as you would when boiling or roasting.

Broccoli is a great accompaniment to so many different main courses but also makes a sturdy vehicle for yum yum sauce or Alabama white sauce.

Instant Pot Broccoli dipped in Yum Yum sauce — Dip Instant Pot broccoli into our yum yum sauce!

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

BROCCOLI – If starting from crowns, chop the broccoli into florets.

WATER – If you like, you can use chicken or vegetable stock instead of water for additional flavor.

How to Make Instant Pot Broccoli

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Add broccoli and water to Instant Pot. Close lid and seal vent.
Cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Do a quick release.

EXPERT TIP – Keep in mind that while the cook time is only one minute, it takes about 12 minutes for the pressure cooking to come to temperature and begin the cooking process.
Remove broccoli from Instant Pot and season to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Can I use frozen broccoli in the instant pot?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets for this recipe. Follow the same directions as listed above. You always want to cook frozen broccoli in the instant pot at high pressure.

How do you store leftover steamed broccoli?

Store leftover steamed broccoli in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Optionally garnish instant pot broccoli with grated parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season to your liking with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. We love dipping steamed broccoli into yum yum sauce, which also pairs really well with a variety of main courses!

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