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Ground beef dumplings served in a savory broth for a hearty meal

Ground Beef and Dumplings

A hearty one-pot meal combining seasoned ground beef and fluffy dumplings, perfect for colder weather or family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 475
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean) Tender and flavorful, this beef serves as the base of our dish.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil To sauté and enhance the flavors.
  • 1 small onion, diced For sweetness and aromatic depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a robust kick to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste Contributes richness and umami.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the beef mixture.
  • 1.5 cups beef broth The savory soul of this dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme A fragrant herb complementing the beef.
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika For a touch of warmth and color.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables Optional: Adds color and nutrition.
For the Dumplings
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour The foundation for our fluffy dumplings.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensures they rise perfectly.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt To season the dumplings.
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened Adds richness and flavor.
  • 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2 percent) To bring everything together into a soft dough.

Method
 

Preparation of the Meat Mixture
  1. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until there is no pink remaining. If there is excess fat, drain it.
Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Once the beef is cooked through, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about four minutes until the onion turns translucent.
Incorporate Aromatics
  1. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. Mix in the tomato paste, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Thicken the Sauce
  1. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir it in. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Add the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Dumpling Dough
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Work in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Create Dumplings
  1. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering beef mixture in the skillet. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and steam the dumplings for 15 minutes.
Finish and Serve
  1. After 15 minutes, check the dumplings for doneness. Let the dish stand uncovered for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an added layer of flavor, consider sautéing some chopped mushrooms along with the onions. You can also add 1/2 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables during the simmer. If you're short on time, use ready-made dumpling dough.