Instant Pot American Goulash Recipe

Quick & Tasty: The Ultimate Instant Pot American Goulash Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that pleases the whole family, look no further than American Goulash! This hearty one-pot meal is a classic comfort food, and with the help of the Instant Pot, you can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes. Today, I’m sharing with you my ultimate Instant Pot American Goulash recipe that’s not only easy to make but also delivers rich, savory flavors that will make it an instant favorite in your home.

I've been cooking for many years and experimenting with different cuisines, but there’s always something special about a classic American dish like goulash. Writing this post brings back memories of my own childhood, where a warm bowl of goulash meant family time, coziness, and satisfaction. I can’t wait to share this delicious and foolproof recipe with you!

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What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comforting, tomato-based dish made with ground beef, pasta, and simple seasonings. Unlike the Hungarian version, which often includes paprika and chunks of beef, the American version is more straightforward but just as delicious. Sometimes referred to as "slumgullion," this dish is beloved across the U.S. for its simplicity, affordability, and heartiness.

Its roots are firmly planted in American households, particularly in the Midwest, where it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or large family gatherings. This classic dish combines tender ground beef with tangy tomatoes, pasta, and a blend of spices to create a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect any day of the week. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, especially in the Instant Pot!

Why Make American Goulash in the Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, and this American Goulash recipe is no exception. With the pressure-cooking power of the Instant Pot, what normally takes over an hour on the stove can be done in less than 30 minutes, without sacrificing any flavor.

Here’s why you’ll love making this dish in the Instant Pot:

Speed: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time. In just a few minutes, your pasta is perfectly cooked, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ease: It’s a true one-pot wonder. From browning the beef to cooking the pasta, everything is done in one pot, which means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.

Flavor: Despite the short cooking time, the Instant Pot intensifies the flavors, creating a rich, savory dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.

Let’s get started with the ultimate recipe for Instant Pot American Goulash!

Ingredients for the Ultimate American Goulash Recipe

One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is because it requires only a few ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide depth and a savory base for the dish.

Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes and tomato sauce for that rich tomato flavor. The acidity helps balance the richness of the beef.

Beef Broth: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.

Elbow Macaroni: The pasta of choice for American Goulash. It cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot.

Seasonings: Paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simple yet flavorful.

Optional Add-Ins: You can customize your goulash with bell peppers, shredded cheese, or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra kick!

Pro Tip:

To prevent the pasta from overcooking, make sure to only pressure cook for 4-5 minutes. You want the pasta to be tender but not mushy.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Quick & Easy!)

1. Sauté the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook until softened. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Pour in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.

3. Add the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni on top, but don’t stir it in. This will prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is done, quick release the pressure.

5. Stir and Serve: Stir everything together, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot. If desired, stir in some shredded cheese for extra richness.

Why This Recipe is the Ultimate Comfort Food

This easy recipe delivers everything you want in a comforting meal. The tanginess of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the savory ground beef and tender pasta, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s all made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

I love how the Instant Pot allows the flavors to intensify in such a short time. The pasta absorbs the broth and tomatoes, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that clings to each bite.

Product Recommendation #1: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

If you don’t already own an Instant Pot, I highly recommend getting the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. It’s a total game-changer in the kitchen, making everything from soups and stews to rice and desserts. The 7-in-1 functionality means you can use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and warmer—all in one!

With over 100,000 positive reviews on Amazon, this model is a customer favorite for its ease of use and versatility. Trust me, once you start cooking with it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

Ready to speed up your cooking? Check out the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 and start making delicious meals in a fraction of the time!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your American Goulash is ready, here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

Top it with Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan on top adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serve with Garlic Bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up any extra sauce.

Add a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the goulash.

Product Recommendation #2: OXO Good Grips Garlic Press

One of the key ingredients in this recipe is garlic, and having a good garlic press can make a world of difference. The OXO Good Grips Garlic Press is my go-to kitchen tool for quickly mincing garlic without the mess. Its large-capacity chamber makes it easy to press multiple cloves at once, and the sturdy construction ensures it will last for years.

If you love cooking with garlic as much as I do, this press is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal.

Enhance your cooking experience with the OXO Good Grips Garlic Press and make mincing garlic a breeze!

Variations & Customizations

The beauty of American Goulash lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:

Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey, sausage, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor.

Add Veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can be added for a nutritious boost.

Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Book Recommendation: The Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook

If you’re new to using an Instant Pot or want to expand your recipe repertoire, I highly recommend The Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook by Laurel Randolph. This cookbook is packed with over 100 easy, flavorful recipes that cover everything from breakfast to dessert. The step-by-step instructions are clear, and the recipes are designed to make the most out of your Instant Pot.

Discover a world of delicious recipes with The Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook and elevate your Instant Pot cooking to the next level!

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of American Goulash, especially when it’s made in the Instant Pot. This easy, one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. With its rich tomato base, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that will quickly become a staple in your home.

Whether you’re a longtime fan