Introduction to Ground Beef and Dumplings
When I think of comfort food, my mind instantly dances to ground beef and dumplings. This dish embodies warmth and nostalgia, wrapping you in a delightful hug with every bite. As a busy mom, I often juggle meals and schedules, and I know how precious time can be. Yet, this hearty dish manages to fit seamlessly into even the most chaotic weeks. With its savory ground beef nestled in rich gravy topped with fluffy dumplings, it’s just perfect for satisfying my family’s cravings. Gather ’round, friends; let’s dive into creating this comforting classic together!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Dumplings
This recipe truly shines when it comes to ease and flavor. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 45 minutes—perfect for busy evenings. The delightful combination of savory ground beef and fluffy dumplings creates a dish that’s both heartwarming and utterly satisfying. It’s a comforting family favorite that will leave everyone smiling and coming back for seconds!
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings
To whip up this comforting dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that work together like a well-rehearsed symphony. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Ground beef: I find that an 85% lean mix keeps it juicy without being overly greasy. The star of the show!
- Olive oil: A little drizzle helps if you opt for a leaner beef to avoid dryness. It adds a lovely richness.
- Diced onion: This fragrant vegetable forms the flavor backbone of the dish, softening beautifully during cooking.
- Minced garlic: A few cloves add depth with their aromatic punch, elevating every bite.
- Tomato paste: This small but mighty ingredient brings a hint of sweetness and tang, enriching the gravy.
- All-purpose flour: Used twice! First, it thickens the beef mixture into a luscious gravy. Second, it helps create those dreamy dumplings!
- Beef broth: The liquid magic! Stock up on good quality broth for the richest flavor.
- Dried thyme and paprika: These herbs pack in earthy flavors that complement the beef beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t forget the seasoning! They bring everything to life, enhancing each ingredient’s taste.
- Frozen peas or mixed vegetables: Optional, but they add nutrition and a pop of color. Feel free to toss in your family’s favorite veggies!
- Butter: A dollop in the dumpling mix ensures they’re tender and buttery—yum!
- Milk: Whole or 2% will do, giving your dumplings a nice, rich consistency.
If you’re curious about the exact measurements, don’t worry! They’re right at the bottom of this article and ready for printing. Now, let’s move on to crafting this delicious meal together!
How to Make Ground Beef and Dumplings
Making ground beef and dumplings is a delightful adventure that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the steps, making this comfort food masterpiece together!
Step 1: Browning the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. I love to break it apart with a wooden spoon and watch it sizzle. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If any excess fat pools, carefully drain it. This gives your dish a cleaner finish.
Step 2: Sautéing Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 4 minutes until it gets soft and fragrant. Then, toss in the minced garlic and stir for an extra minute. The garlic aroma will make your mouth water! This step builds a flavor foundation for your rich sauce.
Step 3: Mixing in Tomato Paste and Flour
Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to caramelize. Now, sprinkle the flour over your beef mixture, ensuring everything gets coated evenly. This will help thicken your gravy and add a lovely depth to the flavor. It’s like giving your dish a warm hug!
Step 4: Adding the Beef Broth
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring. This reduces the chance of lumps from the flour. As the mixture begins to thicken, add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer it for 8-10 minutes—this allows the flavors to blend and create a glorious, gravy-like consistency.
Step 5: Making the Dumpling Dough
While the beef is simmering, grab a medium bowl. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Then, cut in the softened butter until the mix resembles coarse crumbs. It’s like creating tiny pockets of happiness! Finally, stir in the milk until just combined.
Step 6: Dropping Dumplings onto Beef Mixture
Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of your dumpling dough onto the bubbling beef mixture, creating about 6-8 dumplings. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—they’ll puff up beautifully while steaming. Each dumpling will soak up that savory flavor!
Step 7: Steaming the Dumplings
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow those dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes. Here’s the trick—don’t lift the lid! This is where the magic happens. The steam will cook the dumplings, making them fluffy and tender.
Step 8: Serving the Dish
Once the dumplings have cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, uncovered, for 5 minutes. This helps the dish settle. Serve hot in bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous scoop of the beef mixture topped with dumplings. Trust me; your family will be coming back for seconds—it’s that good!
Tips for Success
- Use an 85% lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra moisture, add a splash of broth if your gravy gets too thick.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a popping flavor twist.
- Don’t peek while the dumplings steam; that lid is crucial for fluffiness!
- Make it your own by incorporating your family’s favorite veggies.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A trusty non-stick skillet works wonders for browning meat and simmering gravy.
- Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the dumpling dough. Any mixing bowl will do, even a salad bowl.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring. A spatula or whisk can also be used!
- Lid: Necessary for steaming the dumplings. If you don’t have one, use a baking sheet to cover the skillet.
Variations
- Herb-Infused Dumplings: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or oregano to the dumpling dough for an aromatic twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat!
- Cheesy Dumplings: Fold in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the dumpling dough for a gooey surprise.
- Mushroom Medley: Stir in diced mushrooms with the onions for added earthiness and flavor depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of ground beef and dumplings.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up that delicious gravy.
- Cozy Beverage: Pair with a glass of red wine or a warm cup of herbal tea for a comforting meal.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Dumplings
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to add the dumplings fresh before serving, as they’re best when steamed right before eating.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Dumplings?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread for dipping, or even a side of roasted vegetables. Each addition enhances the meal’s comforting vibe.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef. Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to three months. Just be sure to cook the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to enjoy! Freezing the dumplings can alter their texture.
Final Thoughts
Creating ground beef and dumplings isn’t just about feeding the family; it’s an experience steeped in love and warmth. Standing by the stove, surrounded by the fragrant aromas, I can’t help but smile, knowing I’m preparing a meal that brings everyone together. Each bite reminds me of cozy nights and laughter shared over dinner tables. This recipe effortlessly marries simplicity with comfort, making it a go-to for busy weeks. So grab your apron, invite your loved ones, and let’s turn an ordinary day into a cherished memory with this delicious dish!
Print
Ground Beef and Dumplings: Satisfy Your Comfort Food Cravings!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A hearty and comforting dish featuring ground beef simmered in a rich gravy and topped with fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if beef is leaner)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups beef broth
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings)
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened (for dumplings)
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to coat the beef evenly.
- Slowly add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a gravy-like consistency. Stir in frozen vegetables if using.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Add softened butter and work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the milk just until the dough comes together.
- Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough on top of the beef mixture, aiming for 6–8 dumplings. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the dumplings steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. They will puff up and cook through using the steam and heat from the beef mixture.
- Once dumplings are cooked through, remove from heat and let sit uncovered for 5 minutes. Serve hot, scooping a portion of beef with one or two dumplings into each bowl.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a higher fat content ground beef.
- Feel free to add your choice of vegetables to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
- Make sure not to lift the lid while the dumplings are steaming to ensure they cook properly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
