Instant Pot Hungarian Goulash is a quick and flavorful take on this classic dish. Tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and rich paprika create a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy nights. Made in the Instant Pot, it's ideal for busy cooks craving an authentic flavor that's sure to become a family favorite! I served mine with cheesy spaetze – find the recipe here.
🛒 Build Your Own Goulash Kit
Authentic Hungarian goulash depends on quality imported paprika - the grocery store stuff won’t cut it. Beef, onions, potatoes, and peppers are easy to find locally.
- 🌶️ Hungarian Sweet Paprika - imported from Hungary, rich flavor and vibrant red color
- 🔥 Smoked Paprika - adds a warm, smoky depth alongside the sweet
- 🌱 Caraway Seeds - the classic Hungarian spice, earthy and aromatic
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Hungarian Goulash is a beloved dish often enjoyed in colder months, especially around holidays like Christmas. Known for its hearty ingredients and warming flavors, it’s a popular choice for festive gatherings and cozy family dinners in Eastern Europe.
Jump to:
- What Ingredients Do You Need for Hungarian Goulash?
- How Do You Make Hungarian Goulash in the Instant Pot?
- What Substitutions Can You Make for Hungarian Goulash?
- What Variations Can You Try With Hungarian Goulash?
- What Equipment Do You Need for Hungarian Goulash?
- How Do You Store Hungarian Goulash?
- What’s the Best Tip for Perfect Hungarian Goulash?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hungarian Goulash
- What Other European Recipes Should You Try?
- What Pairs Well With Hungarian Goulash?
- Instant Pot Hungarian Goulash
What Ingredients Do You Need for Hungarian Goulash?
Hungarian Goulash relies on the right spices and hearty ingredients. Sweet paprika and smoked paprika give it depth, while caraway seeds add an earthy undertone. Here's what you'll need for this Instant Pot version:
- Beef stew meat
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Sweet paprika
- Smoked paprika
- Caraway seeds
- Red bell pepper
- Yellow bell pepper
- Potatoes
- Diced tomatoes
- Beef broth
- Tomato paste
- Sour cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
See recipe card for quantities.
How Do You Make Hungarian Goulash in the Instant Pot?
Follow these steps to make authentic Hungarian Goulash in your Instant Pot:
- Step 1: Set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode, add olive oil, and cook onions until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add beef cubes, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides. Stir in paprika and caraway seeds, letting the spices bloom in the oil for 1 minute.
- Step 3: Add bell peppers, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir well, scraping the bottom to deglaze the pot.
- Step 4: Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to "Pressure Cook" on high, and cook for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Serve with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Hint: For the best flavor, use high-quality sweet paprika and let it bloom in the oil for a minute to intensify its aroma.
What Substitutions Can You Make for Hungarian Goulash?
If you're looking to adapt this Instant Pot Hungarian Goulash to different dietary needs, here are some options:
- Low carb – Use cauliflower florets instead of potatoes (or omit potatoes) for a lower-carb version.
- Gluten-free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian – Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms, such as portobello or cremini, and use vegetable broth.
What Variations Can You Try With Hungarian Goulash?
- Spicy Goulash – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Richer Flavor – Deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine after browning the beef to add depth.
What Equipment Do You Need for Hungarian Goulash?
An Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker is essential for this recipe, as it tenderizes the beef quickly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Get one on Amazon.
How Do You Store Hungarian Goulash?
Store leftover Goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What’s the Best Tip for Perfect Hungarian Goulash?
For a richer flavor, try blooming the paprika in hot oil before adding liquids to enhance its sweetness and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hungarian Goulash
Common Questions About Hungarian Goulash
What is the difference between Hungarian goulash and regular goulash?
Hungarian goulash is a traditional stew originating from Hungary, made with beef, paprika, onions, and bell peppers. It has a rich, hearty flavor due to the use of sweet and smoked paprika. In contrast, American goulash is more of a pasta-based dish with ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, resembling a one-pot pasta rather than a stew.
What is traditional goulash made of?
Traditional Hungarian goulash is made with beef, onions, paprika, bell peppers, potatoes, and sometimes caraway seeds. This combination gives it a unique, earthy flavor and a deep red color from the paprika.
What do you serve with Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash is typically served with crusty bread, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. A side of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley also pair well to balance the flavors.
What does Hungarian goulash taste like?
Hungarian goulash has a deep, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness and smokiness from the paprika. The tender beef and rich, spiced broth make it a hearty and comforting dish with layers of earthy flavors.
What Other European Recipes Should You Try?
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
What Pairs Well With Hungarian Goulash?
Hungarian Goulash pairs beautifully with egg noodles or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. Consider pairing with these recipes too:
Instant Pot Hungarian Goulash
Equipment
- Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon (for stirring and deglazing)
- Ladle (for serving)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat cubed
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon paprika sweet
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds optional
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
- 3 potatoes medium, peeled and cubed
- 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup sour cream optional, for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Sea salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil and onions, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Brown the Beef: Add beef cubes to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Spices and Vegetables: Stir in sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds. Add bell peppers and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze the pot. Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and potatoes.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on high for 30 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Serve: Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Notes
Serve with a side of cheesy spaetzle or crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors.
