Instant Pot Goulash

Instant Pot Goulash is a delightful one-pot meal that combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and cheese in a savory tomato-based sauce. This comfort food classic is not only family-friendly but also perfect for busy weeknight dinners. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish can easily become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can have dinner ready in under 35 minutes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single pot.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of seasoned beef and creamy cheese creates a deliciously comforting dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables or change the protein to suit your family’s preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it great for family meals or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Instant Pot Goulash, you will need some essential kitchen tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time and makes it easy to prepare hearty meals.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife ensures precise chopping of ingredients, enhancing even cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time.

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: Brown the Ground Beef

Press Saute on the Instant Pot. When the pot is hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain excess grease if desired.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Then include minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, stirring for an additional minute before pressing Cancel to turn off the saute function.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Pour in the low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth), stirring while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add elbow macaroni pasta to the pot; press it down into an even layer within the liquid but do not stir. It’s okay if some pasta remains above the liquid level. Layer diced tomatoes and tomato sauce on top without stirring.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and move the steam release valve to sealing position. Set cook time to 4 minutes at high pressure. The Instant Pot will take approximately 15 minutes to come to pressure before cooking begins.

Step 7: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully moving the valve to venting position. After the pin drops down, open the lid carefully.

Step 8: Stir & Serve

The goulash may look watery and some pasta might stick together. Stir gently; excess liquid will absorb while separating pasta. Finally, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve topped with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Goulash

Serving Instant Pot Goulash can enhance the dining experience and make your meal feel more complete. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your family and friends.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delicious pairing.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up the sauce.

Topped with Extras

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Goulash

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

• Bold Cooking Technique: Make sure to brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients to enhance the flavor.
• Layer Properly: Place pasta at the bottom and avoid stirring; this helps it cook evenly without clumping together.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Goulash

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Goulash can elevate your meal. Consider these tasty options to complement your main course.

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness and crunch alongside the rich flavors of goulash.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a slight sweetness that balances the savory goulash.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into the sauce.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair wonderfully with the savory profile of goulash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Goulash, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to be aware of.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful goulash. Always take the time to sauté the meat for enhanced taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once may result in uneven cooking. Follow the recipe closely and layer ingredients as directed.
• Ignoring Liquid Measurements: Using too little or too much liquid can alter the texture of the dish. Measure carefully, especially when adding broth and sauces.
• Not Allowing for Pressure Release: Quickly releasing pressure before the cooking cycle is complete can lead to undercooked pasta. Always follow the timing for pressure release as stated in the recipe.
• Stirring Too Much After Cooking: Over-stirring after cooking can make pasta mushy. Gently mix only until combined to keep it al dente.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Instant Pot Goulash in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Goulash

• item Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• item It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in a covered dish for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Instant Pot Goulash take to cook?

Instant Pot Goulash takes about 34 minutes total, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Goulash?

Yes! You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken.

What type of pasta works best in Instant Pot Goulash?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can also use other small pasta shapes like shells or penne.

Can I make Instant Pot Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later use.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Goulash is a delightful comfort food that brings families together at mealtime. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences, making it suitable for everyone. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy a hearty meal that’s quick and satisfying!

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