There’s something magical about the aroma of Instant Pot Beef Goulash wafting through your kitchen, like a warm hug on a cold day. This hearty dish fills your home with the comforting scents of spices and savory beef, just waiting to be devoured at the dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring blankly into your pantry, wondering what to whip up for dinner, this recipe is here to save the day. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, Instant Pot Beef Goulash promises an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This goulash is a one-pot wonder that simplifies meal prep with minimal fuss
- Its rich and robust flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds
- The vibrant colors and textures make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
- Versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or even as a standalone dish
I remember the first time I made this goulash; my friends were raving about it. They practically licked their bowls clean and begged for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Beef Chuck Roast: A great cut that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow in the Instant Pot.
Onion: Use yellow or sweet onions for a hint of natural sweetness that complements the savory elements.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this essential flavor booster.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and sweetness; feel free to mix in yellow or green bell peppers too.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring acidity and moisture; choose fire-roasted for extra flavor.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the beefy goodness.
Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika elevates the dish with its unique flavor; I love using smoked paprika.
Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme brings a delightful aroma and taste.
Pasta (like elbow macaroni): This classic addition makes it hearty; cook it directly in the goulash for convenience.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Goulash
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add some olive oil before tossing in diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
Browning the Beef: Add bite-sized pieces of beef chuck roast to the pot. Sear until they are browned on all sides; this helps develop rich flavors that make your goulash unforgettable.
Add Vegetables and Spices: Once your beef is browned, mix in chopped bell peppers along with paprika and Italian herbs. Stir everything together until combined, enveloping those ingredients in deliciousness.
Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Next, add diced tomatoes along with beef broth into the pot. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom—you want every morsel contributing its flavor.
Incorporate Pasta: Toss in elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta) directly into the mixture. Ensure everything is submerged; this step makes it quick and easy without needing extra pots.
Cook Under Pressure: Seal your Instant Pot lid securely before setting it to high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow it to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam—this will help keep your pasta perfectly cooked.
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful comfort food that proves how easy cooking can be.
You Must Know
- Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a comforting dish that combines tender beef, hearty pasta, and flavorful spices
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making it an instant family favorite
- This dish is not only easy to prepare but also an excellent way to use pantry staples
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make Instant Pot Beef Goulash perfect, sear the beef first for a rich flavor, then add your onions and garlic before pressure cooking the entire mixture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Instant Pot Beef Goulash even better, consider using quality beef broth for richer flavor
- Always let the pressure release naturally for tenderness
- Don’t skimp on adding fresh herbs at the end for brightness
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my childhood dinners, where flavors mingled just like family conversations around the table.
FAQ
Can I use frozen beef for Instant Pot Beef Goulash?
Yes, but ensure to increase the cooking time by 10 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any short pasta like shells or rotini.
Can I make Instant Pot Beef Goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld together beautifully.
Instant Pot Beef Goulash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Experience the warmth and flavor of Instant Pot Beef Goulash, a comforting one-pot meal perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights. This dish combines tender beef, hearty pasta, and a medley of aromatic spices, making it an irresistible delight that fills your home with delicious aromas. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that ensures everyone at the table will come back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tsp sweet or smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Brown the beef chunks in batches until browned on all sides.
- Mix in chopped bell pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs; stir until combined.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape any browned bits from the pot.
- Add elbow macaroni directly into the mixture; ensure it's submerged.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, consider mixing in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. - You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
