Instant Pot Goulash

This Instant Pot Goulash is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce into a comforting one-pot meal. Perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights, this recipe shines with its simplicity and bold flavors. In just 6 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: With only 6 minutes in the Instant Pot, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one pot.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The combination of beef, cheese, and pasta makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Hearty and Filling: This goulash is packed with protein and carbs, perfect for satisfying hunger.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Goulash smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This tool drastically reduces cooking time while infusing flavors deeply into the dish.
• Cutting board & Knife: Having these helps in easily chopping ingredients while ensuring safety during prep.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp tomato paste

For the Sauce

• 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Pasta

• 2 cups elbow pasta

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For Topping

• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Instant Pot Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Turn your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode. Add the olive oil until heated, then toss in the chopped onion. Sauté until soft.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Stir until fully cooked through. Mix in the tomato paste until well combined.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Turn off SAUTE mode. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and elbow noodles. Ensure that all noodles are submerged in liquid.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of your Instant Pot and set it to MANUAL or HIGH for 6 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a Quick Release and carefully remove the lid.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Goulash!

How to Serve Instant Pot Goulash

Serving Instant Pot Goulash is a breeze, and it can be tailored to suit everyone’s taste. This hearty dish pairs perfectly with various sides and toppings, ensuring a well-rounded meal for your family.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the goulash for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – Add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the tomato base.

Add Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate some Parmesan on top for a salty kick and depth of flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Swirl in some cream cheese before serving for a creamy texture.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread – Pair with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls make a great addition, perfect for dipping.

Include a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings a crisp contrast to the warm goulash.
• Mixed Green Salad – Tossed mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Goulash

To make your Instant Pot Goulash even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and overall texture of this comforting dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost – Use high-quality broth for richer flavor instead of water.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Slightly undercook the pasta in the Instant Pot; it will absorb some sauce as it sits.
• Customize Seasonings – Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference, adding more paprika or Italian herbs for extra zest.
• Make it Spicy – For those who enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix during cooking.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Goulash

Instant Pot Goulash is filling on its own, but serving it with complementary side dishes makes your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Butter Corn – Sweet corn sautéed in garlic butter adds a delightful sweetness that pairs well with goulash.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and crunch, balancing out the rich flavors of goulash.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers nutrients and vibrant color to your plate without overpowering flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings depth and variety to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping in leftover sauce from your goulash.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf serves as an excellent base if you want something lighter alongside your hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Instant Pot Goulash, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that could affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Sauté just until it’s browned, then proceed with the recipe.
• Not enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can lead to burnt food at the bottom. Ensure all pasta is submerged in broth for optimal cooking.
• Ignoring the quick release method: Forgetting to perform a quick release can result in overcooked pasta. Always follow this step after cooking for perfectly tender noodles.
• Skipping the seasonings: Under-seasoning can lead to bland goulash. Use the recommended spices and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Not stirring well before sealing: Failing to mix ingredients properly can cause uneven cooking. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–5 days for the best quality.

Freezing Instant Pot Goulash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best enjoyed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Instant Pot Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Instant Pot Goulash that you might find helpful.

What is Instant Pot Goulash?

Instant Pot Goulash is a one-pot meal that combines meat, pasta, tomato sauce, and spices cooked quickly under pressure. It’s a convenient and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.

Can I use other types of meat in Instant Pot Goulash?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile while maintaining the dish’s essence.

How do I customize my Instant Pot Goulash?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition. Feel free to swap out seasonings based on your preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute ground beef with plant-based protein and omit any animal-derived products for a delicious vegetarian version of Instant Pot Goulash.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Goulash is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize according to your taste. Try adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!