When the chill of winter bites and the sun hides away, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Instant Pot Beef Goulash to wrap you in comfort. Imagine tender chunks of beef simmering in a rich, savory sauce, with the aromatic symphony of onions and spices dancing through your kitchen. Each spoonful is like a cozy hug from the inside out, bringing back memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with mouth-watering scents. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia in a bowl. I recall my grandmother’s kitchen filled with warmth as she stirred her famous goulash on chilly Sunday afternoons. It was a family affair, where everyone gathered around the table—forks at the ready—eager to dive into that deliciousness. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends, this goulash promises to be the highlight of any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Instant Pot makes this goulash incredibly easy to prepare, so you can whip it up even on busy nights
- Bursting with flavors from tender beef and rich spices, it delivers comfort in every bite
- With vibrant colors and inviting aromas, it’s visually appealing too!
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for meal prep or serving guests on special occasions
One memorable night, I served this goulash at a dinner party, and my friends were practically fighting over seconds. Their delighted faces were all the feedback I needed!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Beef Chuck Roast: Opt for about 2-3 pounds of well-marbled chuck for tenderness during cooking.
Onions: Use yellow onions; they become sweet and caramelized when cooked.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch; chop them finely for maximum flavor.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for sweetness and visual appeal in your dish.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes create a rich base; choose those without added sugars or preservatives.
Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Use elbow macaroni to absorb all those incredible flavors during cooking.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth for better control over saltiness in the dish.
Paprika (Sweet or Smoked): Paprika adds depth; I recommend smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the beautiful flavors in your goulash.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté ingredients evenly and adds richness.
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 setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up before tossing in chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they turn translucent and release their delightful aroma—about 3-4 minutes is perfect.
Browning the Beef: Next, add your seasoned beef chuck roast cubes to the pot. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, which not only adds color but also deepens the flavor profile.
Add Vegetables & Spices: Stir in diced bell peppers along with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together until fragrant—this step fills your kitchen with an inviting scent that’s hard to resist!
Pour in Tomatoes & Broth: Next up is adding canned diced tomatoes along with beef broth into the mix. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you do this—those little morsels are packed with flavor!
Add Pasta & Cook Under Pressure: Finally, stir in elbow macaroni ensuring it’s submerged in liquid. Close your Instant Pot lid securely and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Release & Serve!: Once cooking is complete, carefully release pressure using quick release method. Open the lid carefully; give everything a good stir to combine flavors before serving hot garnished with fresh parsley if desired!
Now there you have it—a bowlful of happiness! This Instant Pot Beef Goulash not only warms you up but also fills your home with joy through delicious aromas that linger long after dinner is over. Enjoy every comforting bite! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out
- The rich aroma of beef and spices fills your kitchen, promising comfort with every bite
- Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare and deeply satisfying
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the beef in the Instant Pot first to lock in juices, then add vegetables and broth for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, reheating gently on the stovetop.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Instant Pot Beef Goulash, don’t rush the searing process; it builds essential flavor
- Always check seasoning after cooking, as flavors intensify during pressure cooking
- Using fresh herbs can elevate the taste dramatically and make your dish shine
The first time I made Instant Pot Beef Goulash, my friends devoured it and begged for seconds. Their smiles and compliments made my heart swell; it’s a memory I cherish.
FAQ
What can I substitute for beef in goulash?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative for this dish.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Goulash?
Yes, freeze it in portions for up to three months for easy meals later.
How long does it take to cook goulash in an Instant Pot?
Cooking time is about 30 minutes under high pressure, plus time for natural release.
Instant Pot Beef Goulash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Instant Pot Beef Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish features tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce and seasoned with aromatic spices. With elbow macaroni soaking up the flavors, each bite is a delightful blend of nostalgia and warmth. Quick to prepare in your Instant Pot, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tsp sweet or smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add seasoned beef cubes; brown on all sides (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in bell peppers, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape browned bits from the pot.
- Add elbow macaroni ensuring it's submerged in liquid. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Release pressure quickly, stir well, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
