Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Goulash Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both hearty and quick to prepare, you’ll love this Instant Pot Goulash recipe.
It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in no time. The Instant Pot makes cooking so simple; you’ll be amazed at how fast you can whip up a delicious dinner.
Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the next day. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends.
Trust me, it’ll quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Goulash
When it comes to whipping up a comforting meal, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For this Instant Pot Goulash, you’ll want to gather a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Don’t worry if you’re not a master chef; this recipe is designed to make cooking easy and enjoyable, even if your kitchen skills are still a work in progress. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to create this delicious one-pot meal.
- 2 lbs extra lean ground beef
- 3 tablespoons grapeseed oil or olive oil
- 1 (28 ounce) can tomato puree
- 3 tablespoons garlic, minced or garlic paste
- 1 large yellow onion, diced small
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 1/2-3 cups water
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 lb dry pasta (tube-like shape preferred)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon dry mixed Italian herbs (salt-free)
Now, let’s talk about some considerations regarding these ingredients. If you’re not into ground beef, feel free to swap it out for turkey or even a plant-based alternative—just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
And when it comes to pasta, while tube-shaped varieties are great for holding onto that delicious sauce, you can use whatever pasta you have on hand. Just be mindful of the cooking times so you don’t end up with mushy noodles.
And if you’re like me and tend to be a bit heavy-handed with the garlic, well, that’s totally fine; it’s hard to go wrong with a little extra flavor. Just remember, cooking is all about finding what works for you and making it your own.
How to Make Instant Pot Goulash
Making Instant Pot Goulash is like taking a culinary joyride—it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. First things first, plug in your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté setting on high. Pour in 3 tablespoons of either grapeseed oil or olive oil—whichever you have handy—and let it heat up.
Once it’s shimmering, toss in 1 large yellow onion, diced small, and stir it around for about a minute to soften it. Then add in 3 tablespoons of minced garlic (or garlic paste if you’re feeling fancy). This is the part where your kitchen starts to smell like heaven. Just be careful not to brown the garlic; we want it soft and fragrant, not burnt.
Now, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 tablespoon of dry mixed Italian herbs. Stir it all together, and then it’s time to add 2 pounds of extra lean ground beef. Break it up with your spatula and mix it with those onions and garlic. You’ll want to cook this until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
At this point, if you find yourself craving a taste, go ahead and season it to your liking. If the pot times out, no worries; just hit cancel and reset the sauté function. Once the meat is cooked, drain off any excess liquid, then return the beef mixture to the pot.
Next, pour in 1 (28 ounce) can of tomato puree and 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes. Stir it well to combine everything, making sure to mix from the bottom up. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning if needed.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a hint of sweetness, or maybe a dash of chili flakes if you like a little heat. Here’s where the fun really begins—add in 1 pound of dry pasta (tube-like shapes are best) and stir it into the sauce so it’s nicely coated.
Then, pour in 2 1/2 to 3 cups of water. Trust me, this is essential because the pasta will absorb a lot of that liquid while cooking.
Lock the lid in place, seal it, and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook at high for 5 to 6 minutes, depending on your pasta. If you’re a fan of softer pasta, you can push it to 7 minutes, but be warned: it might end up softer than a baby’s bottom.
After the cooking time is up, let the pot naturally release for 25 minutes—it’s a good time to ponder how amazing your dinner will be. After that, finish it off with a quick release of any remaining pressure.
When you finally lift the lid, you’ll see a bit of liquid pooling on top of the pasta. Just gently fold it in, and voilà! You’ve got a steaming pot of delicious goulash ready to serve. Just don’t forget to snag a bowl for yourself before it disappears; it’s that good.
Instant Pot Goulash Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic version of Instant Pot goulash, there are so many fun substitutions and variations to explore that can elevate this dish even further.
For a healthier twist, I often swap ground beef for ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option. You can also try adding bell peppers for extra crunch or kidney beans for more protein.
Experimenting with different pasta shapes, like macaroni or shells, keeps things interesting.
Finally, I sometimes toss in a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless—get creative!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Goulash
After exploring the various substitutions and variations for Instant Pot goulash, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this hearty dish.
I love pairing it with a simple side salad; a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly.
Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also fantastic for soaking up the sauce.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, a side of roasted vegetables adds a nice touch.
Finally, don’t forget a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Instant Pot goulash turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping all your ingredients beforehand. This way, you can easily add them in as you go.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste; I often find myself adding a pinch more garlic or herbs. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you might consider reducing the water slightly.
Finally, for a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes. Cleanup can be a breeze—soak the pot in hot, soapy water if you encounter any sticking.
Enjoy your delicious goulash!