Name: Ground Beef and Dumplings: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended); 1 tablespoon olive oil (skip if using fatty beef); 1 medium onion (diced, yellow or white preferred); 2 cloves garlic (minced, fresh garlic adds better flavor); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (canned crushed tomatoes are an alternative); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (essential for thickening); 2 cups beef broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (seasoning); 1 teaspoon paprika (seasoning); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional); 2 cups all-purpose flour (cold flour helps with texture); 1 tablespoon baking powder (leavening agent); 1 teaspoon salt (important for flavor); 4 tablespoons butter (cold, unsalted butter preferred); 1 cup milk (cold milk for dough consistency)

In the bustling dance of weeknight dinner prep, there’s a moment when the steam rises from the pot, and the comforting aroma of savory goodness fills the kitchen—that’s when you know something special is in the works. My Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe has become a cherished staple in our home, combining tender, well-seasoned beef with soft dumplings that practically float in a rich broth. Not only is this dish a wallet-friendly option, but it also delivers a sense of warmth and satisfaction that memorably lingers at the dinner table. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family gathering or a simple Tuesday night, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal without extensive prep. Curious to see how you can whip up this delightful comfort food? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why is this recipe a family favorite?

Comforting warmth: This Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings dish envelops you in a cozy embrace, bringing nostalgia with each delightful bite.

Effortless preparation: Whip it up quickly on a busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor or quality—perfect for busy families!

Budget-friendly: Enjoy a satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank, ensuring you can feed your loved ones without worry.

Versatile options: Adjust ingredients easily to suit dietary needs, such as swapping ground beef for turkey or enhancing dumplings with cheese.

Crowd pleaser: Impress family and friends alike; this dish invites everyone to gather around the table for a hearty laugh and delightful eats. Discover more comforting recipes like Cheesy Beef Potato or Ground Beef Meatballs that will surely be a hit!

Ground Beef and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture
• Ground Beef – A hearty protein source; 85% lean is recommended for optimal flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds depth to the flavor and helps in cooking the beef; skip if using fatty beef.
• Onion – Enhances sweetness; yellow or white onions work best for this recipe.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma; you can substitute with powdered if needed.
• Tomato Paste – Introduces richness and umami; canned crushed tomatoes are an excellent alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce; whole wheat may be used but alters the texture.
• Beef Broth – Provides the sauce base; preferably use homemade or low-sodium versions for health.
• Dried Thyme & Paprika – Great seasonings to boost flavor; consider fresh herbs for a fragrant twist.
• Salt and Pepper – Crucial for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
• Frozen Peas or Mixed Vegetables (optional) – Adds a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.

For the Dumplings
• All-Purpose Flour – The main ingredient for fluffy dumplings; cold flour helps achieve the right texture.
• Baking Powder – Works as a leavening agent, ensuring light and airy dumplings.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dumplings; don’t skip this!
• Butter – Use cold, unsalted butter for a tender texture; it plays a key role in dumpling fluffiness.
• Milk – Cold milk is ideal for mixing into the dough, creating that perfect dumpling consistency.

Let’s gather these ingredients and create a dish that embodies the essence of comfort, the Ground Beef and Dumplings that will warm your heart and home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish hearty yet light.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in 1 diced onion, cooking until softened, roughly 4 minutes. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. The combination of ground beef and these aromatics sets the base for your flavorful Ground Beef and Dumplings, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 3: Build Sauce
To create a rich sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, allowing it to meld with the beef mixture for about a minute. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over everything and mix well. Gradually add 2 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer
Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens into a gravy-like consistency. If you wish, now is the time to stir in 1 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables for added color and nutrition. The hearty sauce should bubble slightly, creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.

Step 5: Prepare Dumpling Dough
While the beef mixture simmers, prepare the dumpling dough. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 4 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly stir in 1 cup of cold milk until just combined, creating a soft and slightly sticky dough.

Step 6: Add Dumplings
With the beef mixture ready, drop heaping tablespoons of dumpling dough on top, making sure to leave some space between each to allow for rising. You can add 6-8 dumplings, depending on your preference. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, which will create steam for fluffy dumplings.

Step 7: Steam & Serve
Allow the dumplings to steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. This crucial step helps them rise and become tender. After steaming, give them an additional 5 minutes off the heat to settle. Serve your Ground Beef and Dumplings hot, bringing the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish to your family table.

Helpful Tricks for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Don’t Peek: Keeping the lid on during steaming is essential to achieve fluffy dumplings by trapping the steam.
Sauce Consistency: Ensure a slightly saucy mixture; it will thicken as the dumplings cook, providing a delightful texture for the dish.
Cold Ingredients: Using cold butter and milk is key for creating light, tender dumplings, so don’t forget to chill them beforehand!
Timely Steaming: Avoid overcooking by monitoring the steaming time—15 minutes is perfect for fluffy dumplings that don’t turn dense.
Flavor Depth: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor, elevating your Ground Beef and Dumplings to new heights of deliciousness!

Ground Beef and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to give this comforting dish your personal touch, creating unforgettable meals tailored to your taste.

Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version that’s still hearty and satisfying. The flavor remains robust, offering a different twist on this classic dish.
Herb Adventure: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or sage to elevate the flavor; each will bring a new layer of aromatic delight to your dumplings. These herbs can create a delightful accessory to the earthy tones of your beef.
Cheesy Dumplings: Incorporate shredded cheese into your dumpling dough for added creaminess and flavor. Cheddar or mozzarella blend beautifully and make the dumplings a cheesy delight that everyone will love.
Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or beans for a plant-based delight. This delicious alternative will satisfy even the heartiest appetites without compromising on flavor or texture.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture to give it a kick of heat. This vibrant addition enhances the dish and wakes up your taste buds.
Starch Choices: For a different texture, consider using potato flour for the dumplings instead of all-purpose flour. This twist brings a uniquely delightful and slightly denser texture to the dish.
Veggie-Filled Dumplings: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or grated carrots into the dumpling dough. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds beautiful color and a slight crunch, creating visual appeal.
Savoury Broth Variations: Use chicken or vegetable broth in place of beef broth, enriching the dish with lighter undertones while still keeping flavors vibrant and enjoyable. Enjoy it alongside other cherished recipes, such as Beef Pepper Rice or Garlic Butter Beef for a meal that delights the senses!

Make Ahead Options

These Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef mixture up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen in the refrigerator. Simply cook the ground beef, aromatics, and sauce, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container. Additionally, you can mix the dumpling dough and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to keep the texture light. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the beef mixture gently on the stove (adding a splash of broth if needed), then drop the chilled dumpling dough on top and steam as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as when made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings

Refrigerate: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers; they can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the beef mixture separately from the dumplings, ensuring you wrap them tightly. This way, they’ll maintain their texture upon reheating for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Ground Beef and Dumplings, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

What to Serve with Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings

Imagine stepping into a welcoming kitchen filled with heartwarming aromas, where every dish on the table complements your cozy comfort meal.

Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up that deliciously rich broth. Its buttery goodness rounds out the meal splendidly.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the beef and dumplings, enhancing each bite. The crisp textures feel light and refreshing.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans, lightly seasoned with lemon, provide a delightful crunch while balancing the hearty textures on your plate. They brighten the dish with their vibrant color.
Roasted Carrots and Potatoes: These sweet, caramelized veggies add warmth and a touch of sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the savory beef stew. They bring depth to each mouthful on your table.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky smooth mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, adding creaminess and comfort that melds perfectly with the beef mixture. Their comforting texture offers a luxurious mouthfeel.
Pint of Dark Beer: A pint of rich, dark beer brings earthy flavors that beautifully complement the savory elements in the beef and dumplings, enhancing your dining experience.

Enjoy these pairings as delightful companions to your Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings, transforming your dinner into a warm, full-bodied feast!

Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, opt for 85% lean for juciness and flavor. The fat helps in cooking and keeps the meat moist. For onions, look for firm ones with no dark spots or soft spots; they should feel heavy for their size. Fresh garlic bulbs should be plump and tight. For any vegetables, vibrant colors and no blemishes indicate freshness!

How should I store leftovers of Ground Beef and Dumplings?
To keep your delicious leftovers fresh, cool them completely before transferring to airtight containers. They’ll stay good in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to label them if saving multiple meals; a little kitchen organization goes a long way for meal prep!

Can I freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings for later use?
Yes, you can! For optimal texture, freeze the beef mixture and dumplings separately. To do this, allow the beef mixture to cool completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. The dumplings can be flash-frozen by laying them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months!

What should I do if my dumplings turn out dense?
Very! If your dumplings end up dense, it might be because they were overmixed or the steaming time was too long. When preparing the dough, mix just until combined—don’t overdo it! Always keep the lid on while steaming; lifting it releases steam and can lead to denser dumplings. If you notice them starting to get overly thick, just take a peek to ensure the cooking time doesn’t exceed 15 minutes.

Are any substitutions necessary for dietary allergies or preferences?
Of course! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour in the dumplings. If someone is avoiding beef, ground turkey or chicken are fantastic alternatives that yield similar results. Always check labels on any broth or packaged ingredients for allergens, and if you’re catering to specific dietary needs, feel free to mix in veggies or adjust seasonings!