Name: Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85% lean); 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed); 1 small onion, diced; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1½ cups beef broth; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; ½ cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings); ½ cup milk (whole or 2%); ¼ teaspoon salt (for dumplings); 1 tablespoon softened butter; 1½ teaspoons baking powder

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing warms the heart and soul quite like a bowl of Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings. This classic dish delivers juicy ground beef nestled in a rich, savory gravy, all topped with soft and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe gives you a delicious meal without requiring hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and less than an hour to prepare, it’s an ideal option for both busy weeknights and weekends when you want a hearty, satisfying dinner.

The appeal of Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings goes beyond its wonderful taste. The dish is an embodiment of home-cooked comfort that speaks to nostalgia and ease. As you cook, your kitchen will fill with enticing aromas, and the satisfaction of serving a dish that everyone can enjoy is unmatched. This meal not only satisfies hunger but also brings families together around the table—an essential aspect of any great recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings

Quick and Easy: In under an hour, you can whip up a delicious dinner that feels like it took all day to prepare.
Satisfying Comfort Food: The combination of beef and fluffy dumplings is sure to please even the hungriest of eaters.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings, it’s important to prepare yourself and your space. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for browning the beef and making the gravy, along with a mixing bowl for preparing the dumplings. Gather your ingredients ahead of time, including the ground beef, flour, and spices, so that each step flows smoothly.

Ensure your kitchen utensils are clean and ready to use. A wooden spoon for stirring and a measuring cup for liquids will come in handy. Prepping your ingredients can be beneficial—chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the broth before you turn on the stove. Preparation is key to a successful cooking experience and leads to a delightful final dish.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
1 small onion, diced
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups beef broth
½ teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings)
½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
¼ teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
1 tablespoon softened butter
1½ teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by heating your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Allow it to brown evenly, stirring occasionally to achieve a nice sear. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it to keep the dish from becoming too oily. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the beef, making it the star of your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Veggies

Once the meat is nicely browned, it’s time to add depth to the flavor by sautéing the vegetables. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for about 4 minutes or until it turns translucent. This brings out the sweetness of the onion, which complements the savory beef. Just before the onion is done, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aromatic qualities.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

To turn your beef and veggies into a luscious dish, stir in the tomato paste. This adds another layer of flavor to your gravy. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and combine it well to eliminate any lumps. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously until everything is well blended. Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 8–10 minutes until it thickens and becomes rich and flavorful. If you’re incorporating frozen veggies, add them now to cook through during this time.

Step 4: Mix Dumpling Dough

While the beef mixture is simmering away, you can prepare the dumplings. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk, stirring until it is just combined. Be cautious not to overmix to ensure your dumplings remain light and fluffy!

Step 5: Drop Dumplings

Once the beef mixture is thickened, drop heaping tablespoons of dumpling dough over the surface. Leave some space between each dumpling as they will expand during cooking. Turn the heat down low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid; this ensures the dumplings steam properly.

Step 6: Steam the Dumplings

Let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid—this is crucial! The steam will create the perfect fluffy texture. It’s tempting to take a peek, but resist the urge, as doing so will let the steam escape and affect the cooking process.

Step 7: Serve Hot

After steaming, let everything rest for a few minutes without the lid. This helps to prevent the dumplings from becoming too soggy. Then, serve up generous portions of the beef and dumplings in bowls, and get ready to enjoy a warm, nourishing meal.

Variations

Protein: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add external vegetables such as carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different seasonings like oregano, rosemary, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the dish.
Feel free to adjust the amount of broth for a thicker or thinner gravy as per your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover gravy.
Pair with a simple green salad for added freshness and crunch.

Tips

To save time, chop your vegetables and prepare the dumpling mixture while the beef is browning.
For extra fluffy dumplings, be careful not to overwork the dough—mix until just combined.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw it and drain any excess moisture before cooking.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they’ve doubled in size and are fluffy. Avoid opening the lid while steaming!

Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

What can I serve with this dish?

Beyond the suggested bread and salad, consider serving with a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or green beans, for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings is truly the epitome of comfort food—easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With its warm, savory flavors and fluffy dumplings, this recipe is perfect for bringing the family together around the table. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it with additional vegetables or different spices. I invite you to give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a new favorite! Share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to let others know about this amazing recipe! Happy cooking!