If you need a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly and packs a serious punch of flavor, this 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe is exactly what you’ve been searching for. It’s the ultimate weeknight winner with juicy ground beef, vibrant veggies, and tender pasta all bubbling beautifully in your Instant Pot. This dish strikes the perfect balance between cozy and satisfying, delivering rich, savory tomato goodness with subtle hints of brown sugar and smoky paprika to excite your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly but essential in building the vibrant layers of flavor and texture that make this goulash stand out. Each component plays a role—from the hearty ground beef providing richness, to the fresh onion and bell pepper adding brightness and crunch, and the combination of tomato sauce with diced tomatoes creating a luscious, saucy base.
- Ground beef (2 lb): This is your main protein for a juicy and satisfying meal.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 large): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with beef.
- Green bell pepper, diced (1 large): Brings a lovely pop of color and mild peppery flavor.
- Canned corn, drained (15 oz): Sweet bursts of corn lighten the dish and add textural contrast.
- Tomato sauce (29 oz): Creates a silky, rich base that clings to every bit of pasta and beef.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained (30 oz): Adds freshness and chunkiness to the sauce.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Balances acidity while bringing a subtle caramel note.
- Soy sauce (3 tbsp): Deepens the umami flavor, making every bite savory and satisfying.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Adds complexity with tangy, slightly sweet undertones.
- Salt (1.5 tsp): Enhances and ties all flavors together.
- Black pepper (3/4 tsp): A gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Imparts warm, aromatic notes without overpowering.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Gives a subtle smoky depth that transforms this goulash.
- Macaroni (2.25 cups): The perfect pasta choice for soaking up the luscious sauce.
- Beef broth (2.5 cups): Adds richness and moisture, especially when using a quality bouillon.
How to Make 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Veggies
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s just browned. Drain any excess fat, then toss in the chopped onion and diced green pepper. Let them soften for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to build that delicious base flavor.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Sauces
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the meat and veggies evenly with those aromatic spices. Pour in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, followed by the brown sugar. This creates a symphony of umami, sweetness, and tang that will define the dish.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Corn, and Broth
Now pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with all their juices), and the drained corn. Give everything a good stir before adding the beef broth, which helps the pasta cook perfectly while infusing extra richness into the sauce.
Step 4: Stir in Macaroni
Add the macaroni into the pot and gently mix to ensure the pasta is submerged evenly in the liquid. This step is crucial because it prevents the noodles from sticking to the bottom, ensuring a silky, homogenous goulash by the end of cooking.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Goulash
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and choose the manual pressure cook setting for 5 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow a quick release to vent the pressure safely. Open the lid and give your goulash a gentle stir to combine all the flavors beautifully before serving.
How to Serve 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your goulash with freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheddar cheese adds extra bursts of flavor and visual appeal. A dollop of sour cream is also a cozy option, giving a creamy contrast that complements the tomato sauce wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This goulash shines on its own, but you can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables make excellent partners too, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop your goulash into individual bread bowls or stuff it into baked bell peppers for a festive presentation. Layer it over mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a comforting casserole-style plate, perfect for cozy dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover goulash into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Freezing
This 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy that fresh-cooked taste anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little water or beef broth to loosen it back up to its perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni works wonderfully here for its size and shape, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or even small shells based on what you have on hand. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is ground turkey or chicken a good substitute?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken to lighten this dish. The flavor will be milder, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or smoked paprika to keep that rich, savory depth.
Can this recipe be made on the stove instead of an Instant Pot?
Yes! Brown the beef and veggies in a large pot, then add the liquids and simmer until the pasta is cooked through. It will take longer, about 25-30 minutes, but the comforting flavors remain just as delicious.
How spicy is the goulash?
This recipe is designed to be mildly spiced with a gentle warmth from black pepper and smoked paprika. If you like more heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.
Do I need to drain the pasta before adding to the Instant Pot?
Nope! This recipe calls for adding dry pasta directly to the Instant Pot along with the liquids. This method ensures the pasta absorbs all those rich flavors as it cooks.
Final Thoughts
If you love quick, hearty meals that deliver big flavor without fuss, the 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a warm hug in a bowl that you can whip up with ease any day of the week, making family dinners something everyone looks forward to. Give it a go and watch this new favorite land front and center at your dinner table.
Print
30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty 30-Minute Instant Pot Ground Beef Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender macaroni, it offers a rich and flavorful dinner with minimal effort. The addition of green bell pepper, corn, and a blend of spices elevates this classic dish, all cooked quickly in the Instant Pot for convenience and deliciousness.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 15 oz canned corn, drained
Liquids and Sauces
- 29 oz tomato sauce (recommend Muir Glen brand)
- 30 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2.5 cups beef broth (recommend Better Than Bouillon)
Seasonings and Spices
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Pasta
- 2.25 cups macaroni
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the beef. Continue sautéing until the onion is translucent and the peppers have softened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Corn and Liquids: Stir in the drained canned corn, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the Mixture: Add brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the macaroni, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid as much as possible for even cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Ensure the vent is sealed properly.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle completes, allow a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Final Stir and Serve: Open the lid, stir the goulash to combine any separated liquid and ensure even texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or penne if preferred.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.
- If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
- This recipe stores well in the refrigerator up to 3 days and freezes nicely for up to 2 months.
- Leftover goulash can be reheated on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
