Ground Beef and Dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner table. With tender ground beef simmered in a savory broth and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the flavors, this recipe is an absolute winner for a cozy family night. It’s a step-by-step recipe that promises not just delicious flavors but also an enjoyable cooking experience, making it a dish worth making.
There’s something inherently nostalgic about meals like Ground Beef and Dumplings. The warm aroma that fills your kitchen, the anticipation of a wholesome meal shared with loved ones, and the satisfying, hearty experience of every bite transport us to the comfort of home. This dish not only warms your stomach but also brings people together around the dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe is its effortless preparation. With very few ingredients, it’s family-friendly and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. In less than an hour, you can serve a warming meal that everyone will appreciate. It’s particularly great for weeknight dinners or lazy Sunday afternoons when you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen but still crave something fulfilling.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for simple yet flavorful ingredients that will surely become staples in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean): Rich and flavorful, providing a hearty base for the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds healthy fat and enhances palatability.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of flavor that’s unobtrusive yet essential.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds richness and a hint of acidity.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the broth beautifully.
- 1 and 1/2 cups beef broth: The flavorful backbone of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon paprika: These warming spices elevate the taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional): Extra nutrition and color.
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for fluffy dumplings.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides lift.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor in the dumplings.
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened: Adds richness to the batter.
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2 percent): Binds the ingredients together.
Step-by-Step Directions
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. If using leaner beef, make sure to drain any excess fat.
Next, sauté the diced onion in the same skillet until it becomes soft and translucent, about four minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
Mix in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for a minute, then sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add in the softened butter and mix until coarse. Gradually stir in the milk until a dough forms.
Once the beef mixture is ready, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the beef mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, letting the dumplings steam for around 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, check for doneness; the dumplings should be fluffy. Let them sit uncovered for an additional five minutes for optimal texture.
Serve hot and enjoy a delightful meal that warms your heart and fills your belly!
Tips & Tricks
For the best flavor, consider browning the beef well, as this will create a base of caramelized richness. If you want to add a twist, toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers with the onions for added texture and flavor. For a lighter version, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and feel free to swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat or gluten-free flour. Remember, the key to fluffy dumplings is not to overmix the batter—gently stirring is best!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This heartwarming dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information
Ground Beef and Dumplings packs a satisfying punch for any meal. The ground beef offers a generous serving of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Calorie-wise, this dish is relatively moderate, making it a great choice for a hearty dinner without overindulgence. With optional vegetables added, you can increase fiber and vitamins in the meal, making it even healthier!
Storing Tips & Variations for Ground Beef and Dumplings
If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or you can freeze the portions for up to three months. When reheating, add a little splash of broth to maintain moisture. You can also experiment with adding different herbs and spices like oregano or cayenne pepper for added depth of flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef for lentils or chickpeas!
Conclusion for Ground Beef and Dumplings
Now that you know how to make Ground Beef and Dumplings, don’t hesitate to dive into this recipe right away! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines comfort, flavor, and love in one pot. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and watch as everyone gathers around the table for a beautiful home-cooked meal. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work great in this dish.What if I don’t have any beef broth?
You can substitute chicken broth or use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the dumpling dough just before cooking for the best texture, but you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate it.Is it okay to skip the vegetables?
Absolutely! The dish will still be delicious without them, but they do add extra nutrition.How do I know when the dumplings are done?
Dumplings are done when they are fluffy and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean.
Ground Beef and Dumplings
A hearty and comforting dish featuring tender ground beef simmered in savory broth with fluffy dumplings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings)
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2 percent)
Instructions
- Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. If using leaner beef, make sure to drain any excess fat.
- Next, sauté the diced onion in the same skillet until it becomes soft and translucent, about four minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for a minute, then sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
- Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add in the softened butter and mix until coarse. Gradually stir in the milk until a dough forms.
- Once the beef mixture is ready, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the beef mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, letting the dumplings steam for around 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, check for doneness; the dumplings should be fluffy. Let them sit uncovered for an additional five minutes for optimal texture.
- Serve hot and enjoy a delightful meal that warms your heart and fills your belly!
Notes
For the best flavor, consider browning the beef well. You can add chopped carrots or bell peppers for more texture and flavor. For a lighter version, substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg