Ground Beef and Dumplings is the kind of dish that envelopes your kitchen in a warm hug from the moment you start cooking. This one-pot wonder, combining savory ground beef with fluffy, tender dumplings, delivers comfort on a plate like nothing else. As a beginner-friendly meal with just 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of active cooking, it’s a perfect weeknight solution for busy families or anyone craving a hearty lunch or dinner without fuss. Every spoonful offers layers of flavor: the rich, meaty base simmered in tomato broth, each dumpling puffed up and light, ready to soak up every bit of that savory sauce. Calories sit around 450 per serving, making this a satisfying but not overly indulgent option for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Beyond the practical side, there’s an undeniable nostalgia that comes with this dish. Perhaps it reminds you of childhood comfort foods, or maybe it sparks memories of a friend’s home-cooked meal that felt like a warm, caring embrace. No matter where your culinary journey has taken you, these Ground Beef and Dumplings deserve a spot in your recipe box. The subtitle “Savor the Comfort of Ground Beef and Fluffy Dumplings – A Meal to Remember!” invites you to take a moment, slow down, and indulge in the simple pleasure of home cooking. With just a handful of pantry staples—flour, baking powder, butter, and some basics from the fridge—you’ll experience a dish that rises to the occasion whenever you need a little extra coziness at the dinner table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
To craft this delicious one-pot meal, gathering quality ingredients is the first step toward a memorable family dinner. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s robust flavors and textures, from the hearty meat base to the airy dumplings that soak up every bit of savory broth.
- Ground Beef
Provides the savory backbone of the dish. Its rich, meaty flavor creates depth in the broth and offers protein to make this meal satisfying and hearty for everyone around the table.
- Onion
Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic foundation. When sautéed until translucent, it enhances the overall flavor profile and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garlic
Brings a fragrant kick that wakes up the senses. Minced and cooked alongside the onion, it infuses the beef mixture with a warm, earthy undertone.
- Diced Tomatoes
Contribute bright, tangy notes and a silky texture. Their juice forms the base of the simmering broth, adding moisture and a gentle sweetness that ties everything together.
- Beef Broth
Intensifies the meaty flavor while providing a liquid medium for the dumplings to cook in. It ensures that every dumpling emerges tender and infused with savory goodness.
- Worcestershire Sauce
Introduces a complex, umami-rich tang. Its subtle sweetness and vinegar notes elevate the overall depth of the broth.
- All-Purpose Flour
Forms the structure of the dumplings. Combined with baking powder, it creates lightness, allowing the dumplings to rise and become fluffy clouds atop the beef mixture.
- Baking Powder
Acts as a leavening agent in the dumpling dough. It ensures that the dumplings puff up during steaming, giving them a tender, airy texture.
- Salt
Enhances flavors throughout the dish. It’s used both in the dumpling dough and to season the beef mixture, ensuring each bite is well-balanced.
- Milk
Adds moisture and richness to the dumpling dough. It helps create a tender crumb that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
- Butter
Provides richness and helps bind the dumpling dough. Melted into the flour mixture, it contributes to the dumplings’ soft, buttery flavor.
- Salt and Pepper
Used to fine-tune the seasoning of the beef mixture. They allow you to adjust the flavor to your taste, creating a personalized comfort meal.
- Fresh Parsley
Offers a pop of color and a fresh herbal note for garnish. It brightens each serving, adding a hint of garden-fresh vibrancy.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
Let’s dive into the cooking process to transform these ingredients into a soul-warming masterpiece. Follow each step closely—paying attention to techniques like browning, simmering, and steaming—to achieve dumplings that are perfectly tender and a beef mixture that’s rich and flavorful.
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s evenly browned. Break the meat into bite-sized chunks with a spatula, ensuring there are no large clumps. This browning step adds depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, creating caramelized notes in the beef.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir regularly to prevent the garlic from burning and to allow the onion to release its natural sweetness.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the ingredients thoroughly so the flavors meld before you bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering step allows the flavors to deepen and the broth to thicken slightly.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well so the leavening agent is evenly distributed within the flour.
6. Add the milk and melted butter to the flour mixture, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to remain tender and not develop too much gluten.
7. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering beef mixture. Place the dumplings evenly across the surface, ensuring each is partially submerged in the liquid. This even distribution helps them cook uniformly.
8. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings steam for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid, as maintaining steam is essential for properly cooking the dumplings.
9. After 15 minutes, remove the lid and see that the dumplings have expanded and are cooked through. Let the dish sit, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the dumplings to firm up slightly, making them easier to serve.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. The final sprinkle of herbs adds a bright contrast to the rich, savory stew and fluffy dumplings.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
When it’s time to enjoy this hearty dish, thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience and round out your meal. Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, these suggestions ensure every plate looks inviting and tastes exceptional.
- Fresh Green Salad
Pair your dumplings with a crisp salad of mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. A simple vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, and mustard adds a tangy counterpoint to the rich beef and dumplings, creating a balanced plate.
- Steamed Vegetables
Serve colorful steamed veggies—like carrots, broccoli, or green beans—on the side. Season lightly with salt and a pat of butter or drizzle of olive oil so they complement rather than compete with the main dish.
- Crusty Bread
Offer slices of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls. They’re perfect for sopping up any leftover tomato broth, ensuring none of that delicious sauce goes to waste.
- Pickled Relish
A small side of quick-pickled onions or cucumbers cuts through the dish’s richness. The tang and slight crunch add an unexpected layer of flavor and texture, keeping each bite interesting.
HOW TO STORE GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
Proper storage is key to preserving the flavors and textures of your homemade Ground Beef and Dumplings. By using the right containers and techniques, you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the first serving—without sacrificing quality.
- Refrigerator Storage
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the mixture seems dry.
- Freezer Method
For longer storage, place cooled portions into freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Tips
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a bit of beef broth or water to restore moisture. Cover the pan briefly to steam the dumplings back to their fluffy glory.
- Portion Control
Store individual servings in separate containers for easy meals throughout the week. This prevents repeated reheating of the entire batch and keeps each portion fresher.
CONCLUSION
This Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe brings together convenience and comfort, packing savory, tender meat and fluffy dumplings into one soul-warming pot. From the first sizzle of the beef to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, each step is designed to infuse maximum flavor into a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out. With only beginner-level difficulty, a total cook time of approximately 30 minutes, and simple pantry ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Remember, you can print this article and save it for later use—whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking for an easy make-ahead meal. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions and troubleshoot potential hiccups.
We’d love to hear how your Ground Beef and Dumplings adventure turns out! Drop a comment if you have any questions or feedback, share your own serving ideas, or let us know about any flavor twists you’ve tried. Your experiences help fellow home cooks find confidence in the kitchen. Happy cooking, and here’s to many satisfying meals ahead!
Ground Beef and Dumplings
Description
This hearty dish combines savory ground beef with tender dumplings, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Each bite offers warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any dinner table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into chunks with a spatula.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well.
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Add the milk and melted butter to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be sticky yet manageable.
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Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering beef mixture. Be sure to place the dumplings evenly across the surface, and ensure each dumpling is partially submerged in liquid.
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Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it might interrupt the cooking process.
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Once the dumplings have expanded and are cooked through, remove the lid and let the dish sit for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Note
- For an added flavor twist, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a spoonful of spicy mustard to your beef mixture.
- Leftover dumplings can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day; simply reheat them in the skillet with a bit of broth to freshen them up.
- You can add vegetables like peas or carrots to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and color.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic touch.
- This dish pairs well with a green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.
