Instant Pot American Goulash (Instant Pot Chop Suey Recipe)

Instant Pot American Goulash (Instant Pot Chop Suey Recipe) updates our classic ground beef goulash into a quick pressure-cooker recipe.  Using hamburger and elbow macaroni, this goulash recipe is a cult favorite with kids.

Instant Pot American Goulash

I’ve been making a Stove-Top American Goulash Recipe for years. And now with this Instant Pot Goulash with Elbow Macaroni recipe, it’s even easier. This entire Instant Pot American Chop Suey in made in the Instant Pot, starting with browning the ground beef, and all the way to cooking the pasta and making the sauce.  It’s a one pot wonder.

Did you know you can cook pasta in the Instant Pot? Our friend Leah at Beyer Beware breaks it down for you in this helpful post.

What do I need to make Goulash?

American Goulash Ingredients

• Ground Beef
• Diced Onions
• Minced Garlic
• Elbow Macaroni
• Italian Herbs
• Canned Diced Tomatoes or Stewed Tomatoes
• Tomato Sauce
• Water
• Butter
• Sugar

Hamburger Macaroni Goulash Variations

• Use any type of canned tomatoes (with the juices) including diced tomatoes, Italian-diced tomatoes, or stewed tomatoes.
• Tomato juice could be used instead of tomato sauce.
• Tomato paste and extra water would work as a substitute for tomato sauce.
• Swap in a different type of pasta for elbow macaroni.
• Many recipes use cubed beef instead of ground beef.
• Use beef broth for water for added flavor.
• Sugar could be omitted.
• Substitute a combination of basil and oregano for pre-mixed Italian seasonings.
• Garlic powder could be substituted for minced garlic.
• Use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
• Add a diced green bell pepper with the onion.

How to Make American Goulash in the Instant Pot

Step by Step Instructions

1. Brown ground beef and onions on sauté mode in the Instant Pot. If needed, drain excess grease.
2. Add elbow macaroni, minced garlic, water, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian herbs, butter and sugar and stir well. Cover with lid and seal pressure cooker. 
3. Pressure cook on manual high pressure for 4 minutes. 
4. Release pressure manually (quick release method).
5. Stir well. Top with grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool. Transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For the full ingredient amounts and recipe instructions for instant pot goulash with elbow, scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

What vegetables go good with goulash for dinner?

American Goulash, also known as American Chop Suey, has an Italian-inspired feel to it.  I recommend a light side salad or simple green vegetable as a perfect side dish for goulash.

• Creamed Spinach
• Simple Microwave Asparagus
• Broccoli Cornbread Bake
• Creamed Peas 
• Italian Green Bean Salad

Recipe FAQs

• Use fresh, minced garlic if possible for best flavor. The jarred, refrigerated kind works too.
• If you can’t find a blend of Italian seasonings, use a combination of dried basil and oregano.
• Butter helps keep the elbow macaroni noodles from sticking together.
• Stewed tomatoes are great as a substitute for regular diced tomatoes.
• Use the quick release method for the Instant Pot pressure to prevent over-cooking the pasta.
• Check out our Amazon shop for our favorite pantry essentials and kitchen gadgets.

Kid Friendly Dinners Using Ground Beef

Ground Beef Pizza Casserole

Mom’s Hamburger Gravy

Spanish Hot Dog Sauce

Cheeseburger Turnovers

Hamburger Quiche

What is the difference between goulash and American goulash?

While both goulash and American goulash share similar characteristics, they do have some notable differences. Traditional goulash originated in Hungary and is a stew made with chunks of beef, onions, and Hungarian paprika. It has a rich, spicy flavor and is typically served over noodles or potatoes.

On the other hand, American goulash, also known as American Chop Suey, is a variation that emerged in the United States. It usually features ground beef, onions, garlic, macaroni noodles, and a tomato-based sauce. American goulash has a milder flavor profile compared to traditional goulash and is often enjoyed as a comforting, family-friendly dish.

Linking up to Weekend Potluck.

Equipment

Visit our Amazon Store to easily find the pantry staples needed for this recipe. You’ll also find the best kitchen utensils for this recipe including our favorite meat chopper. It makes breaking up hamburger so easy.

This post is sponsored by the Glass Barn, Indiana Soybean and Corn Farmers but all thoughts and opinions are our own.