Ground Beef and Dumplings
Ground Beef and Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that wraps you in warmth with its savory flavors and soft, pillowy dumplings. This classic comfort food combines seasoned ground beef with rich gravy, creating a delightful base that is completed by fluffy dumplings perched on top. A dish that taps into nostalgia, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating a satisfying dish that will have your loved ones asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe is its effortless preparation. With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients required, you can get this dish on the table quickly, making it a family-friendly option that everyone will enjoy. The rich flavors of the beef and the soft, airy dumplings work together beautifully — it’s a wholesome dinner that feels both classic and comforting.
Add in the versatility of the dish, as you can easily include frozen peas or mixed vegetables, catering to the tastes and preferences of your family. Plus, this meal is not high-maintenance; it allows you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones while it simmers away on the stove.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb of ground beef (85 percent lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (only if using leaner beef)
- 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 the 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)
Step-by-Step Directions
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. If using leaner beef, drain the excess fat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, for about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Next, add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this savory mixture simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens into a luscious gravy.
For the dumplings, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add softened butter and work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly stir in the milk until the dough comes together smoothly.
Using a spoon, drop large tablespoons of the dumpling dough onto the beef mixture, aiming for 6 to 8 dumplings to cover the top evenly.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Allow the dumplings to steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, ensuring they cook evenly and fully.
After 15 minutes, check the dumplings for doneness. Once done, allow the dish to sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve hot by scooping generous portions of beef and dumplings into bowls. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty dish!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Ground Beef and Dumplings, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Always ensure to browning your beef thoroughly to enhance its flavor – this will form a rich base for your dish.
- If you’d like extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture while it simmers.
- For a fresh herb kick, try garnishing your dish with chopped parsley or chives just before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Looking to make your meal even more delightful? Pair your Ground Beef and Dumplings with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, or serve with steamed green beans to balance the richness of the dish. A warm, crusty bread can also be a great side for soaking up that delicious gravy. For an added touch of coziness, accompany your meal with a glass of non-alcoholic apple cider or iced tea.
Nutritional Information
This hearty dish is not only delicious but also provides a comfort factor without the guilt. Each serving of Ground Beef and Dumplings offers approximately 400-500 calories, making it a satisfying main course. It’s a balanced mix of protein from beef, carbohydrates from the dumplings, and an optional serving of vitamins from added vegetables.
Storing Tips & Variations for Ground Beef and Dumplings
Leftovers of Ground Beef and Dumplings store well! Keep any remaining dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the gravy.
For variations, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a leaner option. You can also play with the dumpling seasonings by adding herbs like rosemary or dill to give a fresh twist to this classic recipe.
Conclusion for Ground Beef and Dumplings
Ground Beef and Dumplings is a must-try recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With every bite of tender beef and fluffy dumplings, you’ll feel wrapped in comfort. Don’t wait—get this dish cooking in your kitchen right away and discover the joy it brings to your dinner table!
FAQs
1. Can I make Ground Beef and Dumplings in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cook the dumplings fresh before serving.
2. How can I make the dish gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.
3. What kind of ground beef should I use?
For a balance of flavor and health, 85 percent lean ground beef works great, but you can opt for leaner or fattier meat depending on your preference.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! You can add frozen peas, corn, diced carrots, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for an extra nutritional boost and more flavor.
5. How long does it take to prepare?
The total time for preparing and cooking Ground Beef and Dumplings is around 40 – 50 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight meal.
Ground Beef and Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. If using leaner beef, drain the excess fat.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, for about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens into a gravy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and work into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly stir in the milk until the dough comes together smoothly.
- Drop large tablespoons of the dumpling dough onto the beef mixture, aiming for 6 to 8 dumplings to cover the top evenly.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low, allowing the dumplings to steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Check the dumplings for doneness. Allow the dish to sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot by scooping generous portions of beef and dumplings into bowls.
