For cozy nights in, nothing beats a warm bowl of Ground Beef and Dumplings. This one-pan wonder is basically the culinary equivalent of a comforting hug—you’ll find tender crumbles of seasoned ground beef nestled in a rich tomato-beef broth, dotted with colorful mixed vegetables and crowned by fluffy, pillowy dumplings that soak up every last drop. It’s beginner-friendly and perfect for those evenings when you want a hearty, satisfying dinner without a mountain of dirty dishes. From the first spoonful, you’ll taste that perfect balance of savory beef, bright tomatoes, and a subtle tang from Worcestershire sauce, all rounded out by the earthy sweetness of onions and garlic. And let’s talk about those dumplings: they’re so light and tender, you’ll swear they’re magic!
Beyond flavor, this recipe shines in its simplicity and speed. With just 20 minutes of prep, 35 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you can have this cozy dinner on the table in just about an hour. At roughly 550 calories per serving and categorized as an easy weeknight dinner, you’ll find it hard to believe how quickly you created something so soul-warming. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this Ground Beef and Dumplings dish is destined to become your go-to comfort food favorite. So, preheat that skillet and get ready for serious deliciousness!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s chat about what makes this dish shine. Each ingredient plays its own starring role, contributing flavor, texture, and that irresistible comfort factor. From savory beef to fluffy dumplings, here’s what you need and why it matters.
- Ground beef
Provides the rich, meaty foundation for the dish. As it browns, it develops deep, caramelized flavors that infuse the entire meal with savory goodness.
- Onion
Adds natural sweetness and a mild pungency. When sautéed until translucent, it helps build a flavorful base alongside the beef.
- Garlic
Introduces aromatic warmth and a touch of heat. Minced garlic blends seamlessly with the onions and beef, elevating the broth’s complexity.
- Diced tomatoes
Bring bright acidity and vibrant color. Their juices combine with beef broth to create a balanced, savory-tomato broth that’s the heart of this dish.
- Beef broth
Deepens the umami profile, lending a robust backbone to the tomato base. It keeps everything moist and full of flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce
Infuses a tangy, slightly sweet punch. Just a splash boosts the overall savory depth and ties the beef and broth together.
- Mixed vegetables
Offer a nutritious pop of color and texture. Whether frozen or fresh, peas, carrots, corn, or green beans add both nutrition and variety to each bite.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors. Season to taste to achieve the perfect balance.
- All-purpose flour
Creates the structure for the dumplings. Combined with baking powder, it ensures they rise into tender, fluffy pillows.
- Baking powder
Acts as the leavening agent for the dumplings. It gives them that characteristic lift and light texture.
- Salt (for dumplings)
A small amount intensifies the dough’s flavor, ensuring the dumplings aren’t bland against the savory broth.
- Cold butter
Adds richness and creates layered pockets in the dumpling dough. Cubed and cut in, it gives a tender, flaky bite.
- Milk
Binds the dry ingredients and butter into a cohesive dough. It ensures the dumplings hold together and puff up nicely.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
This Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe comes together in one pot, letting you focus on flavor rather than cleanup. Follow these steps closely for a hearty, satisfying dinner that feeds both body and soul.
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Continue until no pink remains and the meat is evenly caramelized—about 6–8 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic releases its aroma.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then stir to combine. Increase the heat just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and tender, but still retain some bite.
5. While the beef and vegetables are simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.
6. Cut in the cold butter cubes using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this creates pockets of butter that make the dumplings tender.
7. Stir in the milk gradually, folding gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should just hold together and remain slightly shaggy.
8. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the simmering beef mixture, spacing them so they don’t touch. Cover the skillet and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and puffed.
9. Once the dumplings are fully cooked, remove from heat and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Then, dig in and enjoy your hearty meal!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
You’ve just created a bowl of comfort gold, and now it’s time to elevate your serving game even further. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just treating yourself, these serving suggestions will bring out the best in every spoonful.
- Crusty bread to soak up the broth: Slice a warm, rustic loaf (think sourdough or ciabatta) and serve alongside. Dip each piece into the tomato-beef broth for an extra-savory bite.
- Crisp green salad for contrast: Toss mixed greens, cucumber ribbons, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette. The bright, fresh flavors balance the richness of the stew and dumplings.
- Dollop of sour cream for creaminess: A spoonful of tangy sour cream on top of each serving adds a silky finish that complements the savory broth and tender dumplings.
- Fresh herbs for a burst of freshness: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or thyme over the dish just before serving. The herbs add a pop of color and a fragrant lift to every mouthful.
HOW TO STORE GROUND BEEF AND DUMPLINGS
Storing your Ground Beef and Dumplings properly ensures you can enjoy this comfort classic again and again without losing any of its delicious appeal. Here’s how to keep flavors bright and textures on point.
- Refrigerating leftovers in an airtight container: Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture.
- Freezing individual portions: Divide the cooled mixture (including dumplings) into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Reheating on the stovetop: Transfer leftovers to a small pot, add a little extra broth or water if needed, and heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Oven method for crisp tops: Scoop portions into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Remove the foil the last 5 minutes to slightly crisp the dumpling tops.
CONCLUSION
Every time you serve up Ground Beef and Dumplings, you’re delivering a heaping helping of cozy comfort that feels like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. From the robust tomato-beef broth to the tender mixed vegetables and the light, fluffy dumplings that crown every bowl, this one-pot dinner is the epitome of simple yet satisfying home cooking. We’ve walked through the key ingredients—each playing its part in flavor, texture, and nutrition—and laid out a clear, step-by-step guide so that even a beginner cook can achieve delicious results. Plus, with straightforward storage tips and creative serving suggestions, you’ll never get bored of this versatile meal. Don’t forget to print this article or save it for your recipe collection; whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s always here when you need a fuss-free, hearty meal.
Below you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions, and as always, feel free to leave a comment, question, or feedback if you give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how your dumplings turned out, what serving tricks you’ve discovered, or any personal twists you’ve added. Cooking is all about sharing stories, tips, and successes—so let me know how this dish fits into your kitchen adventures. Happy cooking and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Ground Beef and Dumplings
Description
This cozy one-pan dish features seasoned ground beef and mixed veggies simmered in a tomato-beef broth, crowned with tender, fluffy dumplings. Perfect for warming up chilly nights with minimal fuss and maximum comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it's completely cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
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Mix in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender.
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While the beef and vegetables are simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cut in the cold butter cubes using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Stir in the milk gradually, combining until the dough just holds together.
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Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the simmering beef mixture. Cover and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and puffed.
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Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Note
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme or oregano to the beef mixture.
- Substitute turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version.
- Make sure not to lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking to ensure they become light and fluffy.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal
