If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in a flash, this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is going to be your new weeknight hero. Rich, saucy ground beef mingles with tender elbow noodles and a vibrant tomato base, all infused with just the right blend of herbs and spices. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but locks in incredible flavors, delivering a dish that tastes like it simmered for hours. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making cozy leftovers, this goulash is a timeless crowd-pleaser with a modern twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable. From the savory ground beef to the sharp cheddar cheese, every component enhances the delicious complexity of this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe.
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: Provides a hearty base with rich protein and a meaty flavor you’ll love.
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (Lawry’s recommended): Adds a balanced punch of seasoning that infuses the beef beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Offers subtle heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Brings natural sweetness and an aromatic backbone to the recipe.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a warm, pungent flavor essential to hearty comfort foods.
- 2 15oz cans diced tomatoes: Contribute tanginess and vibrant tomato flavor, as well as juicy texture.
- 1 15oz can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich sauce that ties everything together.
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a savory, umami boost that deepens flavor complexity.
- 3 cups beef broth: Adds moisture and layers of meaty richness essential to the sauce.
- 1 Tablespoon dried parsley: Brings fresh, earthy herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian herb flavor that brightens the dish.
- 2 large bay leaves: Infuses subtle background fragrance and flavor during cooking.
- 2 cups dry elbow noodles: The perfect pasta shape for absorbing sauce and providing comforting chew.
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste): Allows you to adjust seasoning to your personal preference.
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for creamy, cheesy indulgence that ties every bite together.
How to Make Instant Pot Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Start by turning your Instant Pot onto the sauté setting so it gets nice and hot. Toss in the ground beef along with the minced garlic, seasoned salt, pepper, and chopped onion. As the beef cooks, these ingredients release their flavors, giving the base richness while the onion softens and sweetens. Make sure the meat is completely browned for that deep, savory flavor that defines great goulash.
Step 2: Add the Sauce and Noodles
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if needed—that avoids greasiness while keeping maximum flavor. Then, pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried parsley, oregano, and the elbow noodles, followed by the bay leaves. Make sure everything is well combined; the noodles will soak up all the beautiful juices during pressure cooking. Seal your Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Quick Release and Add Cheese
As soon as the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure so you can open the lid safely. Remove the bay leaves with care, then stir the goulash thoroughly. Immediately stir in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s melted and incorporated, giving the sauce an extra creamy, cheesy richness. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the pot, and let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese melts into a gorgeous, gooey layer.
How to Serve Instant Pot Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate this comforting dish with some fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions brightens up the plate while adding a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a pleasing tang that perfectly balances the hearty flavors.
Side Dishes
Although this goulash is a meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables rounds out the plate wonderfully. Buttery garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress friends or make meals feel extra special, serve the goulash in individual ramekins topped with a little extra cheese and a light broil for a golden crust. For a fun twist, scoop it over baked potatoes or stuffed peppers for a comforting, casserole-style experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is just as delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each serving better than the last.
Freezing
This goulash freezes beautifully, making it a great meal prep option. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to keep the texture creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it cooks a bit faster, so keep an eye during the sauté step to prevent drying out the meat.
What size Instant Pot is best for this recipe?
A 6-quart Instant Pot is ideal for this recipe because it comfortably holds all the ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking and perfect pressure.
Can I substitute different pasta shapes?
Yes! While elbow noodles are traditional for goulash, small pasta shapes like rotini or shells will also work well since they hold sauce nicely.
How spicy is this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced to suit all palates, but feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat in your meals.
Do I have to drain the fat after browning the meat?
Draining the fat helps reduce greasiness and keeps the sauce from being oily, but if you’re using very lean ground beef, you can skip this step for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is truly a game changer for anyone looking to whip up a filling, flavorful meal with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for busy nights or casual family dinners. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen rotation. Give it a shot and prepare to fall in love with goulash all over again!
Print
Instant Pot Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Instant Pot Goulash recipe combines tender ground beef with flavorful tomatoes, elbow noodles, and a blend of aromatic spices for a comforting one-pot meal. Cooked quickly under pressure, it’s topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy finish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
Seasonings and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 large bay leaves
- 2 cups dry elbow noodles
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese Topping
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the ground beef and aromatics: Turn the Instant Pot onto the sauté setting and wait until it’s hot. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, seasoned salt, black pepper, and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is well browned and the onions are softened, stirring occasionally to break up the meat.
- Add remaining ingredients and pressure cook: After browning, drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried parsley, dried oregano, elbow noodles, and bay leaves. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Release pressure and stir: When the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release. Remove the bay leaves and stir the goulash thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add cheese and melt: Stir in ½ cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the hot goulash. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top. Replace the lid (not under pressure) and let the residual heat melt the cheese for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a greasy final dish.
- If preferred, substitute elbow noodles with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper after cooking to taste.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during sautéing.
- If the goulash thickens too much after pressure cooking, stir in a little extra beef broth or water to reach desired consistency.
