Go Back
Savory plate of beef and dumplings served with herbs and spices.
Print Pin

Ground Beef and Dumplings

A heartwarming dish filled with rich and savory flavors, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Keyword comfort food, Dumpling Recipe, Family Meal, Ground Beef and Dumplings, Hearty Dinner
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean) Juicy and rich, packing on flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Optional, for those using leaner beef to enhance richness.
  • 1 small onion, diced Sweet and aromatic to create a perfect base.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and savory to complement the beef.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste Adds a depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For thickening the savory mixture.
  • 1.5 cups beef broth Rich and hearty to ensure moisture and depth.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy and aromatic, enhancing the flavor profile.
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika Adds a subtle heat and vibrant color to the dish.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors.
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables Optional, adds color and nutrition.

For the Dumplings

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour The foundation of light and fluffy dumplings.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensures the dumplings rise perfectly.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt For that essential seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened Creates a tender texture in the dumplings.
  • 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2 percent) Ensures a creamy and moist dough.

Instructions

Cooking the Beef

  • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if using lean beef, ensuring a healthier final dish.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Mix in the tomato paste and stir through the beef mixture for another minute.
  • Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir in while gradually pouring in the beef broth.
  • Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes until it thickens.

Making the Dumplings

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings.
  • Cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually stir in milk until a soft dough forms, ensuring not to over-mix.

Assembling

  • Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough over the beef mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
  • Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Steam dumplings for about 15 minutes.
  • Check the dumplings; cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes if necessary.

Serving

  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Use a heavy skillet for even cooking. Allow the onion and garlic to fully develop their flavors. Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy.