
This keto-friendly approach transforms tough London broil into fall-apart tender beef using the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking power. The method locks in juices while breaking down fibers, delivering results that rival slow-cooked dishes in a fraction of the time.
I developed this technique specifically for low-carb diets, ensuring rich flavor without added sugars or high-carb ingredients. The process is precise: sear the meat first for depth, then pressure cook to achieve perfect tenderness every time.
The final dish features beef so tender it cuts with a fork, bathed in a savory au jus that’s naturally keto-compliant. Each bite delivers the satisfaction of a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ready in under an hour, this method proves that pressure cooking can elevate even the most budget-friendly cuts into something extraordinary.
Ingredients for Keto London Broil Recipe Instant Pot
Transform budget-friendly beef into a keto masterpiece with these carefully selected ingredients.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| London Broil 🥩 | 2 lb | Top round or flank steak works |
| Olive Oil 🫒 | 2 tbsp | Divided for searing and cooking |
| Kosher Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Diamond Crystal preferred for even seasoning |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | 1 tsp | Freshly ground for best flavor |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | 1 tsp | Enhances savory depth in au jus |
| Onion Powder 🧅 | 1 tsp | Complements beef’s natural richness |
| Dried Rosemary 🌿 | ½ tsp | Crushed to release aromatic oils |
| Dried Thyme 🍃 | ½ tsp | Pairs perfectly with rosemary |
| Beef Broth 🥣 | 1 cup | Low-sodium for controlled seasoning |
| Apple Cider Vinegar 🍏 | 1 tbsp | Balances richness, keto-compliant |
| Butter 🧈 | 2 tbsp | Unsalted, for finishing au jus |
| Fresh Parsley 🌿 | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish (optional) |
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The beef cut is critical here. London broil (typically top round) has the right fiber structure for pressure cooking—it breaks down beautifully without turning mushy. Look for well-marbled pieces at the meat counter, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Costco often carries pre-trimmed options at a good price. For best results, take the meat out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
No apple cider vinegar? White vinegar or lemon juice works in a pinch. Out of beef broth? Water plus bouillon cube is a solid substitute. The butter can be swapped for ghee or avocado oil if avoiding dairy. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace the dried versions at triple the amount. Just avoid any added sugars in broths or seasoning blends to keep it strictly keto.
Store raw beef in the coldest part of your fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for 6-12 months. The finished dish keeps well refrigerated for 4-5 days—the flavors actually deepen. Reheat gently in the au jus to prevent drying out. Leftovers make incredible low-carb sandwiches or salads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set It & Forget: I toss the London Broil in the Instant Pot with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then walk away—no babysitting required.
- Garlicky Perfection: The garlic powder works its magic, turning the beef into a tender, flavor-packed bite every single time.
- Keto Meal Prep Hero: I make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for lunches all week—stays juicy even reheated.
- Budget-Friendly Feast: London Broil is affordable, and one cut feeds my family for days without breaking the bank.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto London Broil in Instant Pot
This method delivers perfectly tender beef with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Step 1: Season and Sear the London Broil
Pat the 2 lb London Broil dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub it evenly with 1 tsp Kosher Salt, 1 tsp Black Pepper, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, 0.5 tsp Dried Rosemary, and 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme. Press the seasoning into the meat so it adheres well.
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add 1 tbsp Olive Oil. Once hot, sear the London Broil for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. This step builds a flavorful crust that enhances the final dish. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Pressure Cooking Liquid
Pour 1 cup Beef Broth and 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar into the Instant Pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom—this is where much of the flavor resides. These bits will dissolve into the liquid, creating a rich foundation for the cooking process.
Return the seared London Broil to the pot along with any accumulated juices. The liquid should cover about half of the beef. This ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out during the pressure cycle.
Step 3: Pressure Cook to Tender Perfection
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. The pressure cooking process breaks down the tough fibers in the London Broil, transforming it into fork-tender beef without the need for hours of slow cooking.
Once the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. This gradual release prevents the meat from toughening and ensures it retains moisture.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Rest
Transfer the London Broil to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Stir 2 tbsp Butter into the cooking liquid in the Instant Pot until melted. This enriches the au jus, giving it a silky texture and added depth of flavor.
Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve with Au Jus and Garnish
Slice the London Broil against the grain into thin strips and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon the buttery au jus from the Instant Pot over the top. This liquid gold is packed with savory, herby goodness that complements the beef perfectly.
Garnish with 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The parsley adds a bright note that balances the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience.
Pro Tips For Making Keto London Broil Recipe Instant Pot
- Sear First, Pressure Later: Brown the London Broil in the Instant Pot on saute mode before pressure cooking—about 3-4 minutes per side in olive oil. I learned this the hard way: skipping this step leaves the meat pale and lacking depth.
- Season Aggressively: Use more kosher salt and black pepper than you think—London Broil can handle it, especially since keto dishes benefit from bold flavors. I used to under-season and ended up with bland, forgettable meat.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your London Broil is large, cut it into two pieces so it fits in a single layer. After burning a batch from uneven cooking, I finally figured out that crowding steams instead of sears.
- Rest Under Foil: Let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes under foil after cooking—it keeps the juices in. Sounds weird, but it works: slicing too soon sends all the flavor onto the cutting board.
Best Sauces and Condiments for keto london broil recipe instant pot
Classic Chimichurri
This bright, herbaceous sauce cuts through the richness of the beef beautifully. Blend 1 cup fresh parsley, ¼ cup fresh cilantro, 3 garlic cloves, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, and ½ tsp red pepper flakes until chunky. It adds freshness without compromising keto. 🌿
Creamy Horseradish
Mix ½ cup sour cream, 2 tbsp prepared horseradish, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce. The bold kick enhances the beef’s depth. I love this with London broil—it’s tangy with just the right amount of heat.
Garlic Butter Sauce
Melt 4 tbsp butter with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp fresh rosemary, and ½ tsp lemon zest. Drizzle over sliced beef for an indulgent finish. The Instant Pot’s au jus pairs perfectly with this. 🧈
Spicy Mayo
Combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tsp lime juice. This creamy, spicy condiment adds a modern twist. It’s my go-to for a quick, flavorful boost.
Au Jus Reduction
Simmer the leftover cooking liquid from the Instant Pot for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Strain and serve as a dipping sauce. It’s packed with concentrated beefy flavor and zero carbs.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Flank or skirt steak work well as substitutes. These cuts have similar fiber structures and respond beautifully to pressure cooking in 20 minutes. Avoid very lean cuts like sirloin tip, as they may dry out.
What if my meat isn’t tender?
This usually means it didn’t cook long enough. Add 5-10 minutes of additional pressure cooking time for thicker cuts. Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The flavor improves after 1-2 days in the fridge. Store meat in its au jus in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent drying.
Is the apple cider vinegar necessary?
It adds brightness but can be skipped. Use 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar as alternatives. The acid helps balance the richness of the beef.
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