This is the best Steamed Broccoli you will ever make! This healthy side dish is easy to prepare on the stove, in the microwave, or in the Instant Pot.
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Why this recipe works
Broccoli is a flexible, nutritious vegetable that works with many cooking methods. Steaming preserves its bright color, delicate texture, and most of its nutrients while being quick and effortless. Whether you steam on the stovetop, in a microwave, or in an Instant Pot, the result is a healthy side that pairs well with Asian dishes, roasted proteins, or simply with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs, salt and pepper, or a light cheese sauce.
How to steam broccoli in a pot?
- Trim the broccoli and cut into uniform florets for even cooking.
- Place the florets in a steamer basket set over a pot.
- Add about 1 inch of water to the pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- When the water boils, place the steamer basket into the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5 minutes. Use a timer to avoid overcooking.
- Remove the basket, season, and serve immediately.
How to steam broccoli in the microwave?
This is the fastest method. Put broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with 1/4 cup water. Microwave on high for 3 minutes; the florets should be vibrant and tender-crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, microwave an additional minute. Covering the bowl is optional.
How to steam broccoli in the Instant Pot?
For the pressure cooker, add 1/2 cup water to the stainless steel insert. Place broccoli in a steamer basket and set it inside. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 1 minute (Manual). When the cycle ends, quickly release the pressure by switching the valve to venting. Remove the basket and serve right away.
How long to steam broccoli?
Cooking time varies by method:
- Pot with steamer basket: 5 minutes.
- Microwave: 3 minutes (add 1 minute if you want it softer).
- Pressure cooker/Instant Pot: 1 minute on high pressure.
Recipe FAQs:
Yes. In the microwave you only need a microwave-safe bowl and a small amount of water. On the stovetop, you can also set broccoli on a metal colander or sieve that fits over the pot if you don’t have a steamer basket.
A simple finishing touch is toasted panko breadcrumbs. Melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a skillet, add panko (and Italian seasoning if you like), and toast until golden. Sprinkle over the broccoli just before serving. You can also top it with a cheese sauce, lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of parmesan.
Expert Tips!
- Cut florets to the same size so they cook evenly.
- Bring water to a boil before adding the steamer basket for faster, more consistent results.
- Check doneness at the end of the suggested time; if you want softer broccoli, steam 1–2 minutes longer. You can also keep them covered off the heat for a brief carryover cook if needed.
More side dish recipes:
-
The Best Sauteed Spinach
-
Sauteed Mushrooms
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
-
Fried Cabbage
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed it.
Steamed Broccoli
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
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Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket and set aside.
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Add about 1 inch of water to a pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
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When the water boils, place the steamer basket with broccoli into the pot and cover with a lid.
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Steam for 5 minutes. Test the broccoli and steam 1 more minute if you prefer it softer.
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Remove the basket and serve immediately.
Notes
- Microwave method: Place florets in a microwave-safe bowl with 1/4 cup water and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Add one more minute for softer texture.
- Cut florets to similar sizes for even cooking.
- Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on products used; use your preferred calorie counter for exact numbers.
Nutrition
| Calories: 31kcal
| Carbohydrates: 6g
| Protein: 3g
| Fat: 1g
| Sodium: 322mg