Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about a classic like Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings. This dish combines richly seasoned ground beef simmered in a luscious gravy with pillowy, tender dumplings that soak up every bit of flavor. Imagine warm, savory bites that wrap you in memories of cozy family dinners, bringing a smile to your face with every spoonful. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make, perfect for any day you want a delicious hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings is easy and rewarding. Each component plays its part in creating layers of flavor, texture, and a beautiful balance of color that will delight your senses from the very first step.

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Perfect balance of fat for flavor without being greasy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Useful if your beef is especially lean to keep the dish moist.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a fragrant punch to the base of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrated flavor to enrich the beef gravy.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect gravy-like consistency.
• 1½ cups beef broth: Provides the savory liquid body to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds gentle herbal notes that complement the beef.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: A subtle smoky warmth that rounds out the seasoning.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to bring all flavors together.
• Optional ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables: For a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings): The base of soft, fluffy dumplings.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise and stay light.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the dumplings’ flavor.
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%): Brings the dumpling dough together without making it heavy.

How to Make Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks so everything cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat if it feels too greasy. This step builds your dish’s meaty foundation, creating rich flavor and texture right from the start.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, toss your diced onion into the skillet and sauté it until it softens and turns translucent—about 4 minutes. This softening releases the onion’s natural sweetness, which balances beautifully with the beef. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute, releasing its aromatic oils that will infuse the dish with warmth.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time to deepen the flavor with tomato paste, stirring it in and letting it cook for a minute to mellow its acidity. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir well, coating the beef — this step is key to thickening your gravy. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly so the sauce becomes smooth without any lumps. Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. Let the whole mixture simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens into a luscious gravy, and if you love a veggie boost, stir in those frozen peas or mixed vegetables now.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the sauce simmers, mix the dry ingredients for your dumplings in a bowl: flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the texture resembles coarse crumbs, which makes the dumplings tender and flaky. Finish by stirring in the milk just until a dough forms; don’t overwork it or your dumplings might turn tough. This fresh, simple dough will puff up beautifully when cooked over your savory beef layer.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Pan

Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dumpling dough directly over the simmering beef mixture. Depending on your spoon size, you should form about 6 to 8 dumplings. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam, which is essential for cooking the dumplings through while keeping them moist and fluffy.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook

Turn the heat down to low and let the dumplings steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Patience here pays off, as the dumplings puff up wonderfully, absorbing some of the delicious gravy and becoming the perfect tender topping to your beef mixture.

Step 7: Serve

Once the dumplings are cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and uncover to let the dish sit for 5 minutes. This brief rest allows flavors to set and the dish to cool just enough for easy serving. Scoop generous portions of ground beef with one or two fluffy dumplings onto each plate; this is comfort food at its finest!

How to Serve Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can brighten up the dish and add an extra layer of enjoyment. Fresh chopped parsley or chives work beautifully, lending a pop of green color and fresh, herbaceous notes. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top enhances the savory elements of the dish, making every bite sing.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider pairing Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings with a simple crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like carrots or green beans also complement this savory dish nicely. For a homey touch, some crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any extra gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve the beef and dumplings in individual mini cast iron skillets or rustic ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also spoon the mixture into large shallow bowls and add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little extra kick. Feeling adventurous? Top the dumplings with shredded sharp cheddar before steaming for a cheesy twist your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as satisfying, if not more.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, allowing you to enjoy its comforting taste anytime. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth or water will help loosen the gravy if it thickened too much in the fridge. For microwave reheating, cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the dumplings.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but because they have less fat, be sure to add a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the dish moist and flavorful. Adjust seasonings to your taste since poultry tends to be milder.

How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?

The dumplings should puff up and feel firm to the touch yet tender. Steaming them covered for 15 minutes usually ensures they’re cooked through. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I add cheese to the dumplings?

Yes! Mixing a bit of shredded cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan into your dumpling dough before cooking adds a lovely richness. You can also sprinkle cheese on top of the dumplings before covering the pan to create a delightful crust.

Is it okay to skip the vegetables?

Definitely. While peas or mixed vegetables add color and nutrition, the Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings work wonderfully on their own with the rich beef gravy and fluffy dumplings stealing the show.

Can I make this dish in advance and reheat for guests?

Yes! This meal is perfect for making ahead of time because the flavors meld beautifully after sitting. Reheat gently before serving, and if the dumplings seem a little dense, a sprinkle of broth during reheating can refresh their texture.

Final Thoughts

Making Hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings is like inviting comfort and warmth straight to your dinner table. This recipe is straightforward but filled with flavor and heart, perfect for chasing away chilly evenings or whenever you need a satisfying meal that hugs your soul. Don’t wait to give it a try—you might find it becoming one of your all-time favorite go-to dishes!

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