Ground Beef and Dumplings is a dish that wraps you in a comforting embrace, combining savory beef with fluffy, pillowy dumplings. The harmonious blend of tender meat, aromatic herbs, and rich beef broth creates a delightful one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe offers a taste of nostalgia as it effortlessly invokes memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Whether you’re looking to please picky eaters or searching for a fulfilling meal to warm you up on a chilly day, Ground Beef and Dumplings is truly worth making.

Ingredients

To make this wholesome dish, you will need:

1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean): Juicy and flavorful, it’s the perfect base for our comforting meal.
1 tablespoon olive oil: If using leaner beef, the olive oil adds moisture while cooking.
1 small onion, diced: Aromatic and sweet, it adds depth to the flavor profile.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant, zesty element to the dish.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: A concentrated burst of umami that enhances the overall richness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the beef mixture for a luscious sauce.
1 and 1/2 cups beef broth: Rich and hearty, it forms the base of our flavorful stew.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it perfectly complements the beef.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and a hint of color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for elevating all the flavors.
1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional): A colorful, nutritious addition that brings a hint of sweetness.

For the dumplings:

1 cup all-purpose flour: The main ingredient for our light and fluffy dumplings.
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for making the dumplings rise.
1/4 teaspoon salt: For flavor enhancement.
1 tablespoon butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness to the dumpling dough.
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2 percent): Brings everything together for a smooth dough.

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. If the beef is leaner, feel free to drain any excess fat as desired.
Next, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. As the onion becomes translucent, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill the kitchen.
Now, mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture to help thicken it.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens into a hearty sauce.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the softened butter until the mixture becomes coarse. Slowly stir in the milk until a dough forms.
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the beef mixture, ensuring they’re evenly spaced for even cooking.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, allowing the dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, check for doneness; the dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through. Let them sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve hot, scooping the delicious beef mixture along with the dumplings onto plates, and enjoy this wholesome meal!

Tips & Tricks

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture, which complements the savory notes perfectly.
Experiment with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, sprinkled on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
If you want to make this dish a bit heartier, don’t hesitate to add additional vegetables such as carrots or corn.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Ground Beef and Dumplings makes for a complete meal on its own. However, serving it with a simple side salad or crusty bread can elevate the dining experience. It’s also an ideal dish for family gatherings or potlucks, as it satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. Consider pairing it with a light red wine for the adults or a refreshing iced tea for a family-friendly option.

Nutritional Information

This comforting dish provides approximately 450 calories per serving (based on four servings). Ground Beef and Dumplings is also a good source of protein, with around 30 grams per serving. To balance your meal, consider adding a side of steamed greens or a salad to increase the vegetable intake and add freshness.

Storing Tips & Variations

Leftover Ground Beef and Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze it, portions can be placed in freezer-safe bags or containers and kept for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth as needed to maintain moisture.

For variations, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, try experimenting with different spices, such as rosemary or cumin, to impart new flavors to the dish.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Dumplings is a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it a perfect choice for family dinners or when you want to please a crowd. Try this recipe and share your experience; we’d love to hear how you enjoyed this nostalgic meal!

FAQs

Can I make substitutions for the meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for those looking for a leaner protein option.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can use lentils or plant-based ground meat instead of beef. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
Ensure that you do not overmix the dumpling dough. Stir just until combined for the best texture.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of beef broth to prevent the mixture from drying out.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with Ground Beef and Dumplings!

Hearty beef and dumplings dinner with tender meat and fluffy dumplings.

Ground Beef and Dumplings

A comforting one-pot meal combining savory beef with fluffy, pillowy dumplings, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

For the beef mixture

1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean) Juicy and flavorful, it’s the perfect base for our comforting meal.
1 tablespoon olive oil Adds moisture if using leaner beef.
1 small onion, diced Aromatic and sweet, adds depth to flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced Provides a fragrant element.
1 tablespoon tomato paste Enhances overall richness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps to thicken the mixture.
1.5 cups beef broth Rich and hearty, forms the base of the stew.
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy and aromatic.
0.5 teaspoon paprika Adds warmth and color.
to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor elevation.
0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional) Adds a colorful, nutritious touch.

For the dumplings

1 cup all-purpose flour Main ingredient for fluffy dumplings.
1.5 teaspoons baking powder Essential for making the dumplings rise.
0.25 teaspoon salt For flavor enhancement.
1 tablespoon butter, softened Adds richness to the dough.
0.5 cup milk (whole or 2 percent) Brings everything together for a smooth dough.

Instructions

Preparation

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until thickened.

Dumpling Preparation

In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in softened butter until coarse, then stir in milk until a dough forms.
Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the beef mixture, ensuring even spacing.
Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low, steaming the dumplings for about 15 minutes.
Check for doneness; the dumplings should be fluffy. Let sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy.