Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the rich savoriness of seasoned beef and the delicate fluffiness of tender dumplings, Ground Beef and Dumplings is exactly what you need. This dish combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a cozy, one-pot wonder that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your plate with satisfying flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a chilly day treat, Ground Beef and Dumplings promises warmth, taste, and a touch of nostalgic magic in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this soulful dish, and each component plays a key role in balancing flavors and textures. From the richness of the ground beef to the light, fluffy texture of the dumplings, every ingredient is essential and comes together beautifully.

• Ground beef (1 pound): Provides the hearty, meaty base with rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the savory beef.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
• Beef broth (2 cups): Creates a flavorful, savory liquid in which the dumplings gently cook.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation of the dumpling dough, essential for that tender, pillowy texture.
• Baking powder (2 tablespoons): Helps the dumplings rise to fluffy perfection.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances and balances the overall flavors.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of sweetness to round out the savory notes.
• Milk (1 cup): Moistens the dumpling dough and ensures softness.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sauté the beef and vegetables, adding richness without overpowering.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings tangy depth and umami complexity to the beef mixture.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers subtle warmth and spice.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness before serving.

How to Make Ground Beef and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until nicely browned, breaking it apart as you go to ensure even cooking. If there’s excess grease, be sure to drain it to keep the dish from feeling too heavy. This browned beef forms the savory backbone of your Ground Beef and Dumplings.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Vegetables

Once the meat is cooked, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper, then cook until the onions soften and the mixture becomes wonderfully fragrant. The onions and garlic build layers of flavor that mingle beautifully with the beef.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

While the beef mixture simmers, pour the beef broth into a separate pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. The broth acts as the cooking bath for the dumplings, infusing them with savory taste.

Step 4: Mix in the Dumplings

Prepare your dumpling dough by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and milk until a soft dough forms. Drop spoonfuls of this dumpling mixture into the simmering broth, spacing them apart so they have room to puff up without sticking to each other.

Step 5: Simmer the Dish

Cover the pot tightly and let those dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes until they’re fluffy, tender, and cooked through. The steaming broth hydrates the dough and turns it into the perfect dumpling texture that everyone loves in Ground Beef and Dumplings.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Carefully transfer your savory beef and sautéed vegetables into the pot with the dumplings and broth. Gently stir everything together so that the flavors meld without breaking those delicate dumplings. Ladle the hot, comforting mixture into bowls and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Dumplings

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top not only brings a splash of vibrant green but also brightens the overall flavor perfectly. You can also consider a dash of cracked black pepper or even a swirl of sour cream for extra creaminess and mild tang.

Side Dishes

Ground Beef and Dumplings is fulfilling on its own, but pairing it with crisp, fresh side salads or steamed green vegetables like broccoli and green beans creates a lovely balance. A crusty bread roll or warm cornbread on the side is superb for soaking up all those delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Ground Beef and Dumplings in individual rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching and cozy presentation. Alternatively, layering the dumplings and beef mixture in a casserole dish and finishing with a sprinkle of cheese before baking adds a delightful golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To help keep the dumplings from becoming soggy, try to keep the broth and dumplings together as much as possible.

Freezing

You can freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the moisture if the dish seems too thick or dried out after refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just remember it cooks a bit faster and has a milder flavor, so you might want to enhance seasoning accordingly.

Are these dumplings similar to the ones in chicken and dumplings?

Yes, the dumplings here share the same fluffy, soft texture. The main difference is that they’re cooked in a flavorful beef broth and served with ground beef, giving a more robust and hearty taste.

Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?

To make gluten-free dumplings, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately to help the dumplings hold together.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a similar tangy, umami punch to the ground beef mixture.

Can I add vegetables to the dumplings?

While the traditional dumpling dough is simple, you can stir finely chopped herbs or grated vegetables like carrots into the mixture for added flavor and color, but keep the amount small to maintain the classic dumpling texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Ground Beef and Dumplings—a dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate. It’s approachable, made with simple ingredients, yet brings so much comfort and joy. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; it’s bound to become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to share with everyone you care about.

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