Ground Beef and Dumplings is a comforting, savory dish that brings warmth and heartiness to any table. This delightful recipe combines the robust flavor of ground beef with fluffy, tender dumplings, simmered to perfection in a rich broth. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible and will have your family eagerly anticipating mealtime. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a chilly night or for a casual gathering with friends, this dish promises satisfaction.

The experience of indulging in Ground Beef and Dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey into comfort food that wraps you in nostalgia. This is a dish that evokes feelings of home, making it well worth your time and effort. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you’ll be able to whip up this hearty meal with ease, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef and Dumplings is an excellent choice for several reasons. Firstly, it offers easy prep with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The dish is family-friendly too; even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the combination of flavors. It provides both a quick and traditional approach to meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, if you have leftover vegetables, this recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate them seamlessly.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings

1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 cups beef broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

For Dumplings:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2 percent)

For Ground Beef and Dumplings

The ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings work harmoniously to create a rich and comforting dish. The ground beef serves as a hearty base, while the flavors of onion and garlic provide a fragrant aroma. Tomato paste adds depth, and the choice of seasoning like thyme and paprika contributes to a warm, inviting flavor profile. The dumplings, made with simple ingredients, are light yet filling, making every bite a delightful experience.

Step-by-Step Directions for Ground Beef and Dumplings

In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat if using a leaner beef for a healthier option.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, allowing the natural sweetness to develop. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Incorporating the tomato paste, mix it well with the beef and onion, allowing it to cook for a minute. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture to give it some thickness.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes until thickened, wrapping your kitchen in a warm aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Mix in the softened butter until the mixture is coarse, then gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering beef mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing the dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, check for the dumplings’ doneness to ensure they are cooked through. Let them sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve the Ground Beef and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Tips & Tricks

For those looking to enhance their Ground Beef and Dumplings experience, consider some chef’s secrets. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add an extra layer of umami flavor. If you want to be adventurous, toss in some chopped green peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition. Additionally, make sure your beef broth is high-quality for the best flavor. Using a mixture of fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further, satisfying more refined palates.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Ground Beef and Dumplings can be beautifully paired with simple sides or garnishments. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish. Freshly baked bread is also a fantastic complement, perfect for soaking up the savory broth. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty spread.

Nutritional Information

While Ground Beef and Dumplings is undeniably comforting, it can also be satisfying nutrition-wise. A typical serving (about one bowl) provides a balanced mix of protein from the beef and carbs from the dumplings. Depending on specific ingredients and portions, a bowl delivers approximately 400-500 calories, with healthy fats and fiber. It’s an indulgent meal that can still fit into a balanced diet, especially when paired with vegetables.

Storing Tips & Variations for Ground Beef and Dumplings

If you end up with leftovers, storing Ground Beef and Dumplings is simple! Allow the dish to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. When reheating, ensure it’s warmed thoroughly; you may need to add a splash of broth to regain its original consistency. For a healthy twist, consider swapping out traditional dumplings for whole wheat flour or adding more vegetables to the beef mixture for added nutrition.

Conclusion for Ground Beef and Dumplings

You’re just a few steps away from enjoying the warm, hearty delights of Ground Beef and Dumplings. This dish is more than just food; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, making it perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Try this recipe today and see how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your home.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option while still maintaining flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with a mix of mushrooms and lentils, and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I prepare the dumplings ahead of time?
You can prepare the dumpling dough in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to cook them fresh to ensure they’re fluffy and tender.
What can I do if the dumplings are too dense?
If your dumplings turn out dense, try using more baking powder or ensure you’re not over-mixing the dough, which can lead to tougher dumplings.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for both the beef stew and dumplings to create a satisfying gluten-free dish.

Ground Beef and Dumplings

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Beef

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Description

A comforting dish combining savory ground beef with fluffy dumplings, simmered in a rich broth.

Instructions

In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat if using a leaner beef for a healthier option.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, allowing the natural sweetness to develop. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Incorporating the tomato paste, mix it well with the beef and onion, allowing it to cook for a minute. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture to give it some thickness.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes until thickened, wrapping your kitchen in a warm aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Mix in the softened butter until the mixture is coarse, then gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering beef mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing the dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, check for the dumplings’ doneness to ensure they are cooked through. Let them sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve the Ground Beef and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors.