Discover the Comfort of Ground Beef and Dumplings Today!

When the weather turns crisp and the days grow shorter, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty bowl of Ground Beef and Dumplings. This classic comfort food dish is a true crowd-pleaser, blending tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and fluffy homemade dumplings for a meal that warms the soul. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Ground Beef and Dumplings is a timeless recipe that never fails to delight.

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Ingredients for Delectable Ground Beef and Dumplings

The key to making the perfect Ground Beef and Dumplings lies in the quality of the ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)

The combination of lean ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth creates a foundation for the dish, while the fluffy dumplings add a delightful textural contrast. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Irresistible Ground Beef and Dumplings

Now that we’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing this comforting Ground Beef and Dumplings dish:

Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Aromatics:

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in the tomato paste and flour, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Simmer the Broth:

Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the dried thyme, paprika, and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Prepare the Dumplings:

While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.

Assemble and Cook:

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering beef mixture, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the Ground Beef and Dumplings into bowls, making sure to scoop up plenty of the tender beef, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, homemade classic.

Variations and Modifications for Ground Beef and Dumplings

While the traditional Ground Beef and Dumplings is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this classic dish. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms, to add more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
• Protein Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can try using ground turkey or even shredded chicken in place of the beef.
• Dumpling Twists: Jazz up your dumplings by incorporating herbs, cheese, or even some spices for a unique twist on the classic.
• Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, you can easily adapt this recipe to be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef, sauté the aromatics, and then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the broth, seasonings, and dumplings in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

The beauty of Ground Beef and Dumplings is its versatility, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect version that your family will love.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Chicken and Dumplings
• Beef Stew with Dumplings
• Shepherd’s Pie

FAQs About Ground Beef and Dumplings

Can dumplings be made with ground beef?

Yes, dumplings can absolutely be made with ground beef! In fact, the combination of tender ground beef and fluffy dumplings is a classic comfort food pairing. The ground beef adds heartiness and savory flavor to the dish.

Is there such a thing as beef and dumplings?

Yes, “beef and dumplings” is a well-known and beloved dish that features ground beef or beef stew meat simmered in a rich broth, with fluffy dumplings added on top. This is essentially the same as the “Ground Beef and Dumplings” recipe we’ve outlined here.

When should I put my dumplings in a slow cooker?

If you’re adapting this recipe to be made in a slow cooker, you’ll want to add the dumplings during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will ensure the dumplings cook through without becoming tough or overcooked from extended simmering.

Do you cook the meat before putting it in dumplings?

Yes, it’s important to cook the ground beef before assembling the dumplings. This allows the beef to develop flavor and release its juices, which then infuse the dumplings as they cook together. Adding raw ground beef would result in an undercooked, unappetizing texture.

Savor the Comfort of Ground Beef and Dumplings

When the weather turns cool and you’re craving a heartwarming meal, look no further than this classic Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe. The combination of tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and fluffy homemade dumplings creates a dish that’s sure to satisfy your soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this comforting classic is a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the comforting goodness of Ground Beef and Dumplings.

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