Discover the Joy of Ground Beef and Dumplings in 30 Minutes

Ground Beef and Dumplings is a hearty, comforting dish that’s been delighting taste buds for generations. This classic one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef in a rich, savory gravy, topped with fluffy homemade dumplings for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or need a little pick-me-up on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Ingredients

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 goes into this comforting dish:

Ground Beef Filling

• Ground Beef (85% Lean): The lean ground beef provides the hearty foundation for the dish, while the 85% lean-to-fat ratio ensures a flavorful and tender texture.
• Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps to brown the beef and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables infuse the filling with an irresistible savory aroma and flavor.
• Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste helps to thicken the gravy and lend a subtle sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: The flour acts as a thickening agent, creating a rich and creamy texture in the beef mixture.
• Beef Broth: The broth provides the base for the gravy, adding moisture and enhancing the beefy flavor.
• Dried Thyme and Paprika: These spices bring warmth and depth to the filling, while salt and pepper balance the overall seasoning.
• Optional Vegetables: Feel free to add frozen peas or a mix of vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.

Dumplings

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dumplings, providing structure and chewiness.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the dumplings.
• Butter: A small amount of butter adds richness and tender texture to the dumplings.
• Milk: The milk binds the dumplings together and keeps them moist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet 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, and continue cooking until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in the tomato paste and all-purpose flour, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to coat the beef and develop the flavors.

Simmer the Filling

Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken.

Prepare the Dumplings

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose 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.

Add the Dumplings

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

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hearty Ground Beef and Dumplings into bowls and serve hot, allowing your family and friends to savor the comforting flavors and textures of this classic dish.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Beef and Dumplings

To ensure your Ground Beef and Dumplings turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips and tricks:

• Choose the Right Ground Beef: Opt for an 85% lean ground beef to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture in the filling.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning levels to suit your personal preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
• Experiment with Vegetables: While the recipe calls for optional frozen peas or mixed vegetables, you can also try adding other veggies like carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
• Achieve Fluffy Dumplings: Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough, as this can result in tough, dense dumplings. Gently stir the ingredients until just combined.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Be careful not to overcook the dumplings, as they can become dense and heavy. Also, make sure to simmer the beef mixture long enough to allow the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken properly.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic Ground Beef and Dumplings is a true comfort food favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:

• Alternative Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like crumbled tofu or lentils.
• Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make the dumplings suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, sage, or curry powder, to create unique flavor profiles.
• One-Pot Variations: For a complete meal in a single dish, add diced potatoes, carrots, or other vegetables to the beef mixture before adding the dumplings.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

A serving of Ground Beef and Dumplings provides a hearty and satisfying meal. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fat: 22g

The lean ground beef used in this recipe is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables and dumplings provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. To maintain a balanced diet, consider pairing this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. Portion control is also key, as this comforting meal can be high in calories and fat.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

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

FAQs

Can dumplings be made with ground beef?

Yes, dumplings can absolutely be made with ground beef. In the recipe for Ground Beef and Dumplings, the dumplings are cooked right on top of the savory ground beef filling, creating a delicious and hearty one-pot meal.

Is there such a thing as beef and dumplings?

Yes, beef and dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender chunks of beef or ground beef with fluffy homemade dumplings in a rich, gravy-like sauce. The recipe for Ground Beef and Dumplings is a variation of this beloved dish, using ground beef instead of beef chunks.

When should I put my dumplings in a slow cooker?

For a slow cooker version of Ground Beef and Dumplings, you would add the dumplings during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking time. This allows the dumplings to cook through without becoming too dense or soggy from prolonged simmering.

Do you cook the meat before putting it in dumplings?

Yes, in the Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe, the ground beef is cooked and browned before the dumplings are added. This ensures the beef is fully cooked and develops a richer flavor in the filling. The dumplings are then cooked directly on top of the simmering beef mixture.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Dumplings is a timeless, comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the table. With its tender beef, savory gravy, and fluffy dumplings, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying and delicious meal that’s sure to warm your soul.

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