There is something truly comforting about a hearty, flavorful stew that warms you from the inside out, and this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe delivers just that in a fraction of the usual time. With tender chunks of beef infused with smoky paprika, sweet bell peppers, and earthy carrots and potatoes, every spoonful is a burst of rich, vibrant flavors. If you love classic dishes with a rustic charm and crave a meal that feels homemade but comes together quickly with your Instant Pot, this recipe is going to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe lies in its thoughtfully simple ingredients, each contributing a layer of flavor, color, or texture that makes the dish so unforgettable. From the hearty beef to the fragrant spices and fresh vegetables, everything plays a crucial role in creating that authentic taste.
- 2 lbs chuck roast or boneless beef shank: Your choice of beef cut, cubed, for tender, juicy bites after pressure cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef and bringing out those beautiful caramelized flavors.
- 2 large onions, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Lends its irresistible aroma and a touch of bite.
- 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika: The heart of the dish, providing signature smoky warmth and color.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Boosts the smokiness for extra depth.
- 2 tsp toasted fennel seeds: Gives a slightly sweet, licorice-like note that balances the spice.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- 4 cups beef broth: The liquid base that transforms everything into tender stew.
- 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Offers texture and natural sweetness.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed: The comforting starch that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste): Essential for seasoning throughout cooking.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste): Provides a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle herbal fragrance layered into the broth.
- 2 tbsp flour (optional): For thickening the sauce if you prefer a heartier stew.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that lifts the finished dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heating the olive oil until shimmering. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, add the beef cubes and let them develop a golden-brown crust on all sides. This step not only locks in juiciness but also builds the complex flavor base that will define your goulash. Once all the meat is seared, remove it and set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Spices
Next, introduce the bell peppers to the pot and cook them until they start to char gently—this brings out their natural sweetness and smokiness. Follow with the onions, cooking them until they become soft and translucent, before adding the minced garlic to release its fragrant aroma. Sprinkle in both the Hungarian sweet paprika and smoked paprika along with the toasted fennel seeds, stirring constantly for about one minute to toast the spices, intensifying their flavor. Finally, stir in the tomato paste to meld everything into a rich, fragrant base layer.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
To capture every bit of flavor stuck to the bottom of the pot, pour in a splash of beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those browned bits. This deglazing step ensures all the richness from searing and sautéing is reincorporated into the stew’s sauce, setting a delicious foundation before pressure cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Goulash
Return the seared beef and bell peppers to the pot, then add the remaining beef broth along with carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 35 minutes. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before using a quick release. This tenderizes the meat beautifully while melding all the ingredients into one harmonious dish.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer your goulash with a heartier, slightly thicker sauce, switch the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. Create a slurry by mixing the flour with a bit of water until smooth, then stir it into the stew. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This final step rounds out the texture and makes for an irresistibly saucy meal.
Step 6: Serve
Give the goulash a final taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness, then serve it hot, ready to comfort and delight everyone at your table.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice, its bright green color and mild flavor creating a perfect contrast to the rich stew. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped chives for added creaminess and a touch of tang that cuts through the smoky depth.
Side Dishes
This beef goulash stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread for sopping up every last bite of sauce. A side of buttered egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes also complements the dish wonderfully, adding to the hearty, comforting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash over polenta or spaetzle to introduce new textures and flavors. Alternatively, consider spooning it into baked potatoes or even over roasted vegetables to turn the classic into a contemporary crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover goulash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. As the flavors blend over time, the stew often tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the perfect consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast or boneless beef shank are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use stew meat or even brisket. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts benefit most from the pressure cooking process.
Is it necessary to use Hungarian sweet paprika?
Hungarian sweet paprika is traditional and gives this goulash its signature flavor and color, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with regular sweet paprika or a combination of paprika and a small amount of cayenne for heat.
Can I make this recipe slower than Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop or slow cooker methods, though the cooking time will be much longer. Expect several hours on low heat to achieve similar tenderness and flavor meld.
How do I adjust the spice level?
To make the goulash spicier, consider adding some hot paprika or a pinch of chili flakes along with the other spices. For a milder dish, reduce the smoked paprika or skip any added chili.
Can I omit the flour for a gluten-free option?
Definitely. The flour is only used as a thickener and is optional. If you want to thicken the stew without gluten, try using cornstarch or arrowroot mixed with water instead.
Final Thoughts
Making this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe is like giving yourself a warm, flavorful hug on a plate. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat, with straightforward ingredients and steps that reward you with a soul-warming meal. Whether you’re new to using your Instant Pot or looking for a new comfort food classic, this recipe is sure to become one you return to again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the kind of meal that brings smiles and happy seconds at your table.
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Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a hearty and comforting Eastern European stew made with tender beef chunks, bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, and a rich blend of paprika and spices. Using the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while developing deep, robust flavors. Perfect for a warming family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 lbs (900g) chuck roast or boneless beef shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
Vegetables
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp toasted fennel seeds
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste after cooking)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste after cooking)
- 1 bay leaf
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Water (for slurry, if thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the beef: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing until all sides are golden brown. Remove the beef and set aside to retain the beef juices and develop deep flavors.
- Sauté vegetables and spices: Add the bell peppers to the pot and cook until slightly charred. Then add the onions and sauté until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Mix in both Hungarian sweet paprika and smoked paprika along with toasted fennel seeds; cook this spice mix for 1 minute to release aroma. Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in a small amount of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom to enhance the stew’s flavor and prevent burning during pressure cooking.
- Pressure cook: Return the seared beef and bell peppers to the Instant Pot. Add the remaining beef broth, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ (high pressure) for 35 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to remove remaining pressure.
- Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, set the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. Make a slurry by mixing the flour with a little water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook, stirring, until the stew thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and serve the goulash hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For best results, cut beef into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Toasting fennel seeds enhances their flavor; you can toast them briefly in a dry pan before adding.
- If you do not want to thicken the goulash with flour, you can skip the slurry step for a brothier stew.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the paprika amount based on your preferred level of smokiness and sweetness.
- Natural pressure release helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
