Name: Instant Pot Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 bell pepper (chopped); 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 30 ounces canned diced tomatoes; 15 ounces canned tomato sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instant Pot Goulash is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. This easy one-pot meal combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and cheese in a rich tomato-based sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. With its hearty flavor and minimal cleanup, this recipe stands out as a must-try for anyone seeking a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
One-Pot Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together, saving you time on cleanup.
Family-Friendly: Kids love this comforting dish, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different pasta shapes.
Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of ground beef and cheese creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies every appetite.

Tools and Preparation

To make Instant Pot Goulash, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Instant Pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking times while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface helps keep your prep organized and safe while chopping ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this recipe.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Goulash is an easy one pot meal made with ground beef, macaroni pasta and cheese in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This comfort food classic is family-friendly and perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 bell pepper (chopped)
– 1 ¾ cups low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth, equal to a 14.5 ounce can)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
– 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked, 9 ounces by weight)
– 30 ounces canned diced tomatoes
– 15 ounces canned tomato sauce
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)

How to Make Instant Pot Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef

Press Saute on the Instant Pot. When the pot is hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned while crumbling it with a spatula. If desired, drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook until softened, about two minutes. Then add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper. Stir continuously for one minute before pressing Cancel to turn off the sauté function.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids & Seasonings

Pour in the low-sodium beef broth while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Layer Pasta & Sauces

Add uncooked elbow macaroni pasta to the pot, pressing it down into an even layer in the liquid but do not stir. It’s acceptable if some pasta remains above the liquid level. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the top without stirring.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the steam release valve to sealing position. Cook at high pressure for four minutes. The Instant Pot will take approximately fifteen minutes to reach pressure before starting the countdown.

Step 6: Release Pressure & Serve

When cooking ends, perform a quick release by carefully moving the steam valve to venting position. Once the pin drops down, open the lid of your Instant Pot. The goulash may appear slightly watery; stir gently until extra liquid absorbs and pasta separates.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Garnish

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve warm topped with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Goulash!

How to Serve Instant Pot Goulash

Serving Instant Pot Goulash is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal alone, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

Crusty French Loaf: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist, providing both crunch and taste.

Add a Green Salad

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing pair well with the richness of goulash.
Garden Salad: Fresh vegetables add a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds color and brightness to your goulash.
Chives or Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Goulash

To ensure your Instant Pot Goulash turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Use Lean Ground Beef: Choosing lean ground beef reduces excess grease and keeps the dish lighter.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Adding pasta directly into the pot without stirring prevents it from becoming mushy.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving; you may want to add more salt or spices based on your preference.
Let It Rest: Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Goulash

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Goulash can enhance the meal’s overall satisfaction. Here are some tasty options to consider:

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add nutrition and color without overwhelming flavors.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty goulash.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a nutty flavor that complements the richness of goulash nicely.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for mopping up sauce while adding a touch of sweetness.
Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for an enjoyable side, adding texture to your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are always a comforting addition, making each bite even more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Instant Pot Goulash turns out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Bold phrase: Underestimating the cook time – Many think the Instant Pot cooks instantly, but it takes time to reach pressure. Allow for this in your planning.
Bold phrase: Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the beef and vegetables adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for a tastier dish!
Bold phrase: Not measuring ingredients correctly – Accurate measurements are key in cooking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure the best results.
Bold phrase: Stirring too much – Adding ingredients in layers without stirring is important for even cooking. Stirring can make the pasta clump together.
Bold phrase: Ignoring liquid ratios – The Instant Pot requires sufficient liquid to build pressure. Always follow the recipe’s liquid guidelines closely.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Goulash

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Goulash

Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warmed through.
Bold phrase: Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Bold phrase: Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Goulash?

Instant Pot Goulash is a hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and cheese, all cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Goulash?

The cooking time is just 4 minutes at high pressure, but remember that it takes about 15 minutes for the pot to come to pressure before cooking begins.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Goulash?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or use various types of cheese. Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?

Layering the pasta without stirring it into the liquid helps prevent clumping. After cooking, gently stir once before serving.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Goulash is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding kids or hosting friends, this dish will please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors!