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This Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a rich, hearty meal for any day of the week. The beef tastes like it has simmered all day but is actually made in less than an hour!
Making goulash in the Instant Pot is THE way to go. The chunks of beef are so tender and flavorful, everyone will think it has been stewing all day. The gravy is nice and thick, just how gravy should be. The veggies are tender, but not TOO tender. I know that in some Instant Pot recipes the vegetables can get too mushy. That is not the case with this recipe! We served this over German egg noodles and my kids couldn’t get enough! You could serve this over noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, thick slices of Texas toast, biscuits or in a bowl all its own like a stew. This is a terrific meal any night of the week!
What is Goulash?
Depending on where you are from, goulash could mean several different things. For instance, American goulash is quite different from Hungarian goulash. I will explain the differences below. This Instant Pot goulash recipe is a considered a Hungarian goulash. Hungarian goulash is a type of thick stew made from meat and vegetables and seasoned with paprika and other spices. My husband first had this dish when he was living in Denmark and always called it “Danish” goulash. It is very popular in Denmark and other European countries.
What is Traditional Goulash Made Of?
Traditional Hungarian goulash consists of easy-to-find ingredients such as beef and vegetables and is commonly served with noodles or mashed potatoes. It is also a great one-pot meal all on its own – no sides needed! Here’s a breakdown of the traditional ingredients in goulash:
American Goulash vs Hungarian Goulash
In my opinion, American goulash and Hungarian goulash have very little in common, if anything. The taste is completely different and they are made in different ways. Hungarian goulash is a meaty dish that resembles stew. The base is more of a gravy or a thick beefy soup consistency. It can be served with noodles or potatoes but they are both more of an accessory to the goulash and not required. American goulash (also known as “American Chop Suey”) is more tomato based and made with short pasta, usually elbow macaroni. The American version does not always have beef but if it does, it is typically ground beef.
How to Make Goulash in an Instant Pot
Making goulash in the Instant Pot is easy! It’s all done in one pot, which makes cooking and clean up a snap! Here’s what you do:
What to Serve with Instant Pot Goulash
You can serve this Instant Pot goulash over egg noodles or over mashed potatoes. If you want to keep it more like a hearty stew, you can add diced potatoes when you add the carrots in the Instant Pot. If you add potatoes and make it more like stew, there is no need to serve it with noodles. I would suggest serving it with warm bread or rolls and enjoying it on its own.
Tips for Making Goulash in the Instant Pot
Storing and Reheating Goulash
Goulash can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove top on low heat until heated through. If you are wanting to make this into a freezer meal, leave the carrots out of the recipe and freeze after cooking for 2-5 months. Thaw the goulash overnight in the refrigerator before re-heating in a saucepan on the stove. Cook carrots separately and add before eating.
5-Star Reviews for Instant Pot Goulash
“I cooked this tonight in instant pot. It was delicious. I had it over brown rice. Oh so good. Glad I tried it. Definitely will make again”. – Ann C.
“This was absolutely fantastic!!! Thank you so much for a recipe that my kids gobbled up”! – Jessica B.
Made your Goulash in my pressure cooker tonight and my husband and I loved it!! I used Kitchen Bouquet and it gave it that rich dark color without adding any flavor. This recipe is definitely a keeper!! Thank You.” – Carol R.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hungarian goulash is more meaty and is like a thick, rich stew. American goulash is a macaroni pasta dish that is more tomato based.
Hungarian goulash is more meaty and is like a thick, rich stew. American goulash is a macaroni pasta dish that is more tomato based.
Absolutely! The Instant Pot tenderizes beef beautifully and makes for the perfect goulash.
Absolutely! The Instant Pot tenderizes beef beautifully and makes for the perfect goulash.
Beef broth, paprika, onions, and beef give goulash its rich, meaty flavor. Browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and bay leaves can also be added to add flavor.
Beef broth, paprika, onions, and beef give goulash its rich, meaty flavor. Browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and bay leaves can also be added to add flavor.
Try some of our Other Instant Pot Recipes
Be sure to try some of our other easy Instant Pot recipes! If you like this Beef Goulash recipe, you will be sure to love our Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast recipe. Here’s a few more of our very favorites:
You may want to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Allow Instant Pot to release pressure and remove lid.
Add carrots.
Allow Instant Pot to release pressure and remove lid. Press “saute” function.
- Goulash can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove top on low heat until heated through.
- If you are wanting to make this into a freezer meal, leave the carrots out of the recipe and freeze after cooking for 2-5 months.
- Thaw the goulash overnight in the refrigerator before re-heating in a saucepan on the stove. Cook carrots separately and add before eating
Nutrition Information
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