If you have been craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with rich flavors and tender chunks of beef, then this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This vibrant stew masterfully combines sweet and smoked paprika, tender vegetables, and melt-in-your-mouth beef in one pot, making it an absolute joy to prepare and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that practically cooks itself or a meal that warms your soul on chilly evenings, this dish delivers all that and more with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to achieving that classic, robust flavor and hearty texture that defines a great beef goulash. Each component adds something special, from the sweetness and smokiness of the paprika to the tender vegetables that soak up the luscious broth.
- 2 lbs chuck roast or boneless beef shank: Choose a cut with good marbling for tender, flavorful meat that shreds beautifully after pressure cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables to develop deep flavor.
- 2 large onions, finely chopped: They add sweetness and a soft texture that forms the stew’s flavorful base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Bringing aromatic warmth and a subtle kick to the mix.
- 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika: The heart of this recipe that delivers that unmistakable rich, smoky, and sweet flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds an extra layer of smoky depth for complexity.
- 2 tsp toasted fennel seeds: A unique touch that lends a subtle licorice note enhancing the stew’s profile.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with its concentrated tomato sweetness and umami.
- 4 cups beef broth: The liquid base that infuses the meat and vegetables with savory goodness.
- 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces: Provide vibrant color and mild sweetness, balancing the spices.
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Offer natural sweetness and tenderness after cooking.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed: Absorb the flavors beautifully and create a satisfying, hearty bite.
- 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle herbal notes that deepen the stew’s complexity.
- 2 tbsp flour (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, this helps achieve a luscious stew consistency.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the beef cubes in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pot, and sear until all sides are gloriously golden brown. This step locks in juices and creates rich, caramelized flavor foundations for the stew. Remove the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Spices
Now add the bell peppers to the pot and cook until they develop a slight char and soften, building smoky sweetness. Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and tender, creating a deliciously aromatic base. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, then sprinkle in the Hungarian sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and toasted fennel seeds. Cook everything for about a minute to toast the spices, bringing out their full flavor potential. Finally, stir in the tomato paste and mix well to coat the ingredients with its rich, concentrated tomato essence.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour a small amount of beef broth into the pot, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. This deglazing step ensures no flavor is wasted and every bit of the beefy goodness finds its way back into the stew.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Return the seared beef and sautéed bell peppers to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth along with the carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Secure the lid, seal the pressure valve, and set your Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 35 minutes. Once cooking finishes, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker, richer stew, switch your Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. Make a slurry by mixing the flour with cold water, then slowly stir this into the pot. Continue to cook and stir until the stew thickens to your liking, giving it that comforting, velvety texture.
Step 6: Serve
Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley and dish out while hot, murmuring quietly to yourself that you’ve just nailed a classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the perfect final touch, adding a pop of color and brightness that contrasts the hearty, rich flavors of the goulash. You can also experiment with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp grated cheese for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This beef goulash is a full meal on its own, thanks to the potatoes and vegetables, but it also pairs wonderfully with crusty rustic bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. For a lighter side, serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the goulash in rustic bowls or deep plates to emphasize its hearty, comforting nature. For a special occasion, you could ladle it over buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta to elevate the dish even further. Garnishing with microgreens or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a restaurant-worthy touch at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container to preserve its flavors and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This goulash freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast or beef shank is ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or stew meat. Just ensure you cut the beef into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Can I make this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe spicy?
Yes! To add heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot smoked paprika instead of the sweet variety. You can also toss in chopped jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
What can I substitute for fennel seeds if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have fennel seeds, you can skip them or substitute with anise seeds or caraway seeds for a somewhat similar licorice-like note, though they are optional and won’t drastically change the dish.
Is it okay to skip the flour for thickening?
Definitely. The stew is delicious even without thickening. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can also use cornstarch or reduce the stew by sautéing longer after pressure cooking instead of flour.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
There is something beautifully soothing about a bowl of this Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe – it’s both a hearty meal and a flavorful journey inspired by tradition. Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time, it’s a recipe you’ll want to turn to again and again, especially when craving something true comfort food. Give it a try and discover why this dish effortlessly wins hearts and fills bellies with joy.
Print
Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a hearty and flavorful Hungarian-inspired stew made with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich blend of sweet and smoked paprika. Perfectly cooked under pressure for tender meat and infused with aromatic fennel seeds, this comforting dish comes together quickly in your Instant Pot and is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 lbs (900g) chuck roast or boneless beef shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste after cooking)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste after cooking)
- 1 bay leaf
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 Flavorings
- 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp toasted fennel seeds
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Liquids and Cooking Additions
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the beef: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. In batches, add the beef cubes and sear them until all sides are golden brown. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside to preserve their browned flavor.
- Sauté vegetables and spices: Add the bell peppers to the pot and cook until they become slightly charred. Then add the onions and sauté until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Incorporate the Hungarian sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and toasted fennel seeds, cooking for about 1 minute to release their aromas. Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly to combine.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in a small amount of beef broth to deglaze the bottom of the pot, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. This adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
- Pressure cook: Return the seared beef and bell peppers back into the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high pressure for 35 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, set the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. Prepare a slurry by mixing flour with water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the stew. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- To avoid overcooking, do not cook the beef under pressure for longer than recommended.
- For a gluten-free version, omit the flour or replace it with cornstarch for thickening.
- Allowing a natural pressure release helps keep the meat tender and flavorful.
- Adjust the level of paprika based on your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
