Name: Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) chuck roast or boneless beef shank, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large onions, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons toasted fennel seeds; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces; 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch slices; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste); 1 bay leaf; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This Instant Pot Beef Goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Tender beef cubes, a rich and smoky paprika-based sauce, and a medley of vegetables come together in this classic Hungarian dish. Using the Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare, while still delivering all the comforting flavors of a traditional goulash.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Hearty: This goulash is packed with the rich flavors of paprika, beef, and vegetables, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Easy to Make: With the help of an Instant Pot, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Instant Pot Beef Goulash:

Chuck roast or boneless beef shank: Cut into 1-inch cubes, these cuts of beef are ideal for slow cooking and become tender and flavorful in the Instant Pot.
Olive oil: For searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
Onions: Finely chopped, for flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Hungarian sweet paprika and smoked paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color to the goulash.
Toasted fennel seeds: Adds a warm and slightly sweet flavor.
Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the sauce.
Beef broth: Forms the base of the flavorful sauce.
Bell peppers: Cut into 1-inch pieces, for color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
Carrots: Peeled and sliced, adds sweetness and nutrition.
Potatoes: Peeled and cubed, for heartiness and texture.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle aromatic flavor.
Flour: Optional, for thickening the gravy.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Goulash

Step 1: Sear the Beef and Sauté the Vegetables

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Sear the beef cubes in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside. Add the bell peppers to the pot and cook until slightly charred and smoky. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and lightly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices and Deglaze

Stir in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and toasted fennel seeds. Cook for 1 minute to release their aromas. Add the tomato paste and stir well to combine. Pour in a bit of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Return the seared beef and bell peppers to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Add the remaining beef broth, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 35 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker gravy, set the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and a small amount of water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pot and stir well. Cook for a few minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use good quality beef: The better the quality of your beef, the better the flavor of the goulash.
Toast the fennel seeds: Toasting the fennel seeds enhances their flavor and adds a warm complexity to the dish.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier goulash, add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Goulash

Classic: Serve the goulash with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or spaetzle.
Other Options: You can also serve it with rice, polenta, or crusty bread.
Garnish: Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
While chuck roast and beef shank are ideal for their tenderness after slow cooking, you can experiment with other cuts of beef that are suitable for stewing.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this goulash in a Dutch oven or a slow cooker. For the Dutch oven, simmer the goulash on the stovetop for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. For the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I add other vegetables to this goulash?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or green beans.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the beef with butternut squash or sweet potatoes, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Instant Pot Beef Goulash that’s perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal. Enjoy!