Instant Pot Goulash Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that comes together in a flash, this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish where tender ground meat mingles with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all coated in a luscious tomato-herb sauce. What makes it truly special is how the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process without sacrificing any of that hearty, homemade charm. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a wholesome dinner pronto, this recipe hits all the right notes with ease and deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that classic goulash goodness. From the savory ground meat to the tender egg noodles and aromatic herbs, these simple components combine for a dish that’s both satisfying and colorful.

• 1 pound ground meat (I used turkey): A lean protein base that browns beautifully and adds hearty texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite pop.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and subtle spice.
• 2 tablespoons dry minced onion: Delivers savory punch and depth without the need to chop fresh.
• 2 tablespoons dry chives: Offers a mild oniony freshness that brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Brings a fragrant richness that complements the meat perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds silkiness and rounds out the flavors during sautéing.
• 1½ cups chicken broth: Provides the flavorful liquid base to cook the noodles and meld flavors.
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs: A blend of herbs that adds an earthy, aromatic touch.
• 2 cups egg noodles (dry): The tender pasta that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• 20 ounces canned diced tomatoes: Adds vibrant color, acidity, and juicy sweetness for balance.

How to Make Instant Pot Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Toss in the ground meat, dry minced onion, dry chives, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cooking the meat until it’s thoroughly browned unlocks a savory depth, while the onions and garlic release their wonderful fragrance, creating a flavorful foundation for the goulash.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients and Mix

Once the meat is browned, pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, and dry egg noodles. Stir everything together so the noodles are submerged and coated with the sauce—this helps them cook evenly under pressure and absorb all those rich flavors.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the sealing valve is closed. Set the pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This step quickly softens the noodles and melds all the ingredients into a harmonious, hearty meal with minimal effort.

Step 4: Quick Release and Stir

When the cooking cycle finishes, perform a quick release by carefully opening the sealing valve to let out the steam. Remove the lid, then give the goulash a good stir to combine all the ingredients perfectly and check for seasoning. Your cozy, comforting Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Goulash Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can truly elevate this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or some grated Parmesan cheese adds a fresh and savory finish that brightens each bite. For a creamy twist, a dollop of sour cream on top complements the tangy tomato base beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, while a crusty loaf of bread is perfect for sopping up every bit of that delicious sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests or jazz up a family dinner? Serve your goulash in individual bowls garnished with microgreens or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color. Or, turn it into a cozy casserole by layering it with cheese and baking briefly for a bubbly topping. Either way, the comforting appeal remains.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Goulash Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making for an easy and tasty lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing and leave some space at the top as the noodles will expand slightly. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your goulash gently in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen the sauce and keeps the noodles perfectly tender. It also works well in the microwave but watch to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully in this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe and adds a richer flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning.

Do I have to use egg noodles?

Egg noodles are traditional and ideal due to their texture, but you can substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or even rice if preferred. Adjust cooking time accordingly if you do.

Is this recipe spicy?

This dish is mildly seasoned with herbs and black pepper but isn’t spicy. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like heat.

Can I make this Instant Pot Goulash Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground meat for plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How thick will the sauce be after cooking?

The sauce should be nicely saucy but not overly thick since the noodles absorb some liquid. If you prefer it thicker, let it simmer a little longer with the lid off after pressure cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Goulash Recipe is a true game changer for a weeknight dinner—simple ingredients, speedy preparation, and a crowd-pleasing result. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, feeds your soul, and invites you to come back for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortless comfort food can be!

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