If you’re craving a comforting, one-pot dinner that’s full of rich flavor and nostalgic vibes, then this Instant Pot Beef Goulash is calling your name! This cozy classic takes all the hearty goodness of beef, pasta, and tomatoes—with a gentle smoky edge from paprika—and brings it to your table in just about 25 minutes, thanks to your Instant Pot. Whether you remember this American-Hungarian mashup from childhood or you’re just on the hunt for a weeknight meal that everyone will love, this recipe delivers warmth, satisfaction, and big smiles, all in one magical bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Beef Goulash comes together with a handful of simple, every-pantry ingredients—each one playing a key role in the overall flavor, texture, and classic look of the finished dish. Don’t skip or skimp; every ingredient brings something special!
- Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the beef and onions for a richer base.
- Ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing savory, meaty flavor and protein.
- Onion: Brings sweet depth and soft texture as it cooks down with the beef.
- Garlic: Gives a punch of aromatic flavor—don’t skip this for true goulash goodness!
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Adds tang, base flavor, and needed liquid.
- Tomato sauce: Lends rich, velvety tomato flavor that coats every bite.
- Beef broth: Deepens the savory flavor and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash goes a long way for umami and complexity.
- Paprika (preferably Hungarian): The signature spice—smoky and sweet for that classic red color.
- Italian seasoning: Herbaceous notes round out the sauce beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning everything; adjust to taste.
- Black pepper: Adds warmth and a little kick.
- Elbow macaroni (uncooked): The ultimate comfort-food pasta, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Makes everything extra creamy and irresistible if you love a cheese pull.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Brings a pop of bright color and fresh flavor to finish the dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Goulash
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef
Begin by setting your trusty Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Drizzle in the olive oil and let it warm for a minute, then add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is nicely browned and the onion turns soft and translucent—about 5 to 6 minutes. If you notice any excess grease pooling up, go ahead and drain it to keep your goulash bright and hearty, not greasy.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Build the Umami Base
Sprinkle in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. The sizzle will release incredible aroma—this step gives the Instant Pot Beef Goulash its deep, old-fashioned soul. Breathe it in and get ready for the next layer!
Step 3: Stir in Sauces, Spices, and Liquids
Now it’s time to add some serious flavor. Pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to ensure the beef and onion mixture is well coated with the tangy and savory sauce that will infuse the pasta during cooking.
Step 4: Add Macaroni and Pressure Cook
Grab your uncooked elbow macaroni and sprinkle it over the top of the mixture. Do not stir at this point—just press the pasta gently down with a spoon so it’s submerged in the liquid. This prevents undercooked or crunchy noodles. Cancel the Sauté mode, lock on the lid, and set your valve to Sealing. Select Pressure Cook (High) and set for 4 minutes. The anticipation is real!
Step 5: Quick Release and Cheese Optional
When the timer beeps, do a quick release (be careful with the steam). Once all the pressure is out, open the lid and give that gorgeous goulash a good stir to mix everything together. If you want cheesy goulash, add the shredded cheddar now and stir until melted. Let it sit for a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens up—it’s hard to wait, but the creamy, saucy result is worth it!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Spoon generous helpings into bowls or onto plates, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a vivid splash of color, and get ready for smiles all around. Your Instant Pot Beef Goulash is now ready to comfort and delight!
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Goulash
Garnishes
Chopped parsley is the classic finish, offering a bright, herby accent to each bowl. For something extra, try a tiny scattering of extra paprika, a dollop of sour cream, or a pinch of grated cheese. Even a few sliced green onions can add color and zest—presentation is half the fun!
Side Dishes
Crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory sauce. Steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted vegetables all make wonderful, vibrant partners to your Instant Pot Beef Goulash and keep things balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
This dish loves a playful presentation. For family-style, serve it straight from the Instant Pot at the table. For weekly meal prep, portion it into individual containers. Or, pile it high in oven-safe bowls, top with cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish that transforms leftovers into a craveable baked casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Instant Pot Beef Goulash holds up incredibly well in the fridge—simply scoop leftovers into a tightly sealed container. They’ll stay tasty and satisfying for up to 4 days, and the flavors even deepen over time, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.
Freezing
If you’d like to stash some away for a future busy night, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or zip bags (remove as much air as possible). Label and date them—your frozen goulash will keep for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
For quick reheating, just pop a portion in the microwave and add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. If reheating a larger amount on the stovetop, gently warm on low heat, stirring often, and add a touch of extra liquid so the pasta stays cozy and soft.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground sausage are great swaps and will both add their own flavor twist. Just follow the same steps as with ground beef.
Do I have to use Hungarian paprika?
Hungarian paprika is traditional and brings a slightly sweet, smoky warmth, but you can definitely use regular or even smoked paprika if that’s what you have on hand—your Instant Pot Beef Goulash will still be delicious!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta shapes, keeping in mind that some gluten-free types might cook a bit faster. Monitor the texture so the noodles don’t get overly soft.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can make this dish on the stovetop: just brown the ingredients in a deep stovetop pot, simmer after adding pasta (covered) until noodles are tender, and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Adjust liquid as needed.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Layer the pasta on top and don’t mix before pressure cooking—this ensures even cooking without turning the macaroni to mush. A quick release as soon as the timer is up is also key for perfect, al dente noodles.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Beef Goulash isn’t just a speedy weeknight solution—it’s a bowlful of comfort and memories, ready to brighten any table. I guarantee you’ll want seconds! Give it a try soon, and let it become a favorite at your house, too.
Print
Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Made with ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and a blend of spices, this dish is hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce:
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in Instant Pot, sauté beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook.
- Add Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Worcestershire sauce, spices. Add macaroni, pressure cook.
- Finish: Quick release pressure, stir goulash. Optionally add cheddar, let thicken, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Ground turkey or sausage can be substituted for beef.
- This dish freezes well and makes great leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes (plus time to come to pressure)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Hungarian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
