Instant Pot Goulash Recipe
I can’t stop making this! It’s a flavor explosion that never fails to delight my family. Whether you call it a crockpot goulash recipe or slow cooker goulash recipe, this Instant Pot version is my favorite shortcut for goulash night. And guess what? Leftovers taste even better reheated the next day—major win!
Servings
This recipe typically feeds 6 hungry people.
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
20-25 min (under pressure)
Serves
4–6 people
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or other multi-cooker)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step 1: Sauté the beef
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add aromatics
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine liquids and seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Toss in the pasta
Add elbow macaroni, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is submerged.
Step 5: Pressure cook
Seal the lid and set to High Pressure for 4 minutes. Perform a quick release when done.
Step 6: Serve
Give everything a quick stir. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then dig in while it’s hot!
Tips & Variations
- For a goulash recipe slow cooker style, follow the same steps but set your slow cooker on low for 6 hours. It’s the best slow cooker goulash recipe if you enjoy a slow, rich simmer!
- Want an easy crockpot goulash recipe? Brown the beef on the stove, then transfer everything to the crockpot and cook 4–5 hours on low.
- Add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Swap ground beef for turkey or use a veggie ground “meat” substitute if desired.
Nutrition
Each serving is roughly 350 calories with around 40 g of carbs, 18 g of protein, and 10 g of fat.
Diet & Allergen Info
Made with wheat-based pasta, so it’s not gluten-free. You can substitute gluten-free macaroni if needed. No nuts or dairy are used, so it’s naturally nut-free and dairy-free.
Storage Suggestions
Let your goulash cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth if it thickens.
FAQ
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, but you might need to add an extra minute of pressure cook time. Always check doneness and adjust seasonings to ta
