If you love ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and fuss-free, this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is about to become a regular on your dinner table. With a savory, rich beef filling bubbling gently beneath pillowy, homemade dumplings, every bite is a soothing hug of flavor and texture. It’s a classic, old-school favorite reimagined for modern family cooking—but still as cozy and soul-satisfying as ever. Whether you’re making weeknight magic or feeding a crowd, this easy skillet meal brings everyone running to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe lies in its simple, reliable ingredients. Each component brings something special—juicy beef for richness, veggies for pops of color, and fluffy dumplings for irresistible comfort. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness in your filling.
- Onion: Adds sweet depth and then melts into the sauce as it cooks.
- Garlic: Brings a subtle kick that marries all the other flavors together.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Colorful peas, carrots, and corn make each spoonful bright and hearty.
- Tomato Paste: Intensifies the sauce and lends a rich, umami dimension.
- Beef Broth: Forms the flavorful gravy for both the beef mixture and to steam those dumplings.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash delivers that unforgettable savory boost.
- Dried Thyme: Adds an aromatic, herby note that pairs beautifully with beef.
- Salt: Essential in both the beef layer and dumplings so every bite is seasoned just right.
- Black Pepper: A little warmth and gentle heat brightens the whole dish.
- Olive Oil: Starts the flavor base while cooking the onion and beef.
- All-Purpose Flour (for Dumplings): The core of fluffy homemade dumplings that soak up all the savory sauce.
- Baking Powder (for Dumplings): Ensures those dumplings puff up to perfect, tender heights.
- Butter (for Dumplings): Cold, small pieces create that buttery, tender crumb in your dumplings.
- Milk (for Dumplings): Just enough to bring the dough together without making it heavy.
How to Make Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Beef
Heat your olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, toss in the minced garlic and the ground beef, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Stir and cook until the beef is beautifully browned and no pink remains. This is your flavor foundation, so take the time to get the meat nicely caramelized!
Step 2: Build the Rich Sauce
With your beef browned, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef, letting those flavors meld for a moment before pouring in the beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Now, scatter in the frozen mixed vegetables. Let the mixture simmer quietly while you whip up the dumplings—the veggies will cook perfectly and the sauce will thicken slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Dumpling Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and, using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut the butter in until you have a mix that looks like coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir gently until just combined into a soft, shaggy dough. Don’t overmix; the secret to dreamy dumplings is keeping the dough tender.
Step 4: Drop and Steam the Dumplings
Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of the dumpling dough onto the surface of your simmering beef and veggie mixture, spacing them out a bit. Don’t worry if they’re rustic—imperfection is part of their charm! Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and let everything cook undisturbed for 15–18 minutes. The gentle steam will puff the dumplings right up. Resist the urge to peek—the magic happens with the lid on!
Step 5: Let Rest and Serve
Once those dumplings are tender and cooked through (check with a toothpick, it should come out clean), remove the skillet from heat and leave it, still covered, for 5 more minutes. This resting step gives the dumplings a final burst of fluffiness and lets all the flavors mellow together. Now you’re ready to dive in and enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving. A grind of fresh black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt can really wake up the flavors, while a little shredded sharp cheddar adds big comfort vibes for cheese lovers. Serve right from the pan for that rustic, family-style feeling!
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal in itself, but a simple green salad with a zippy vinaigrette or some roasted green beans make fresh, bright companions. If you want to soak up every drop of that savory sauce, serve with warm, crusty bread or even a side of classic mashed potatoes—true comfort on a plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try splitting the Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe into individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls for adorable personal servings—perfect for dinner parties or cozy family nights. Or, sprinkle dumplings with grated Parmesan before serving for an Italian twist. Even ladling this over extra buttery mashed potatoes takes it completely over the top for a “stick-to-your-ribs” experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Let everything cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen, making the next day’s lunch or dinner even more delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, too! Spoon the cooled beef and dumplings into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Lay a bit of parchment between dumplings to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to two months for a future instant comfort meal.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce needs loosening. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts—just cover loosely and watch that the dumplings don’t dry out. Sprinkle with fresh herbs or cheese upon serving for a dash of extra love.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! This Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is super versatile. Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, equally comforting version. You might want to add an extra splash of Worcestershire or some additional herbs to boost flavor with leaner meats.
What’s the secret to fluffy dumplings?
Cold butter and a light hand are key! Work the butter into the flour until just crumbly and mix the dough gently. Steaming under a lid, without peeking, will ensure pillowy, tender dumplings every time.
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and check that your baking powder is gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays the same, just take care not to overwork the dough.
Do I need to thaw the vegetables first?
No need! Frozen mixed vegetables can go straight into the simmering beef mixture. They’ll cook perfectly and retain their color and just-right texture.
Can I double the Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe for a crowd?
Yes, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and easily doubles. Use a larger pan or even split between two skillets to ensure the dumplings have space to puff as they cook. Enjoy serving up seconds!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s equal parts nostalgic and nourishing, this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is just what you need. Every spoonful is packed with comforting, familiar flavors and satisfaction. Give it a spot on your next weeknight menu—you’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table!
Print
Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty dish, this Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe is a one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef stew with fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Stew: In a skillet, cook onion in olive oil, add garlic, ground beef, and brown. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Add frozen vegetables.
- Make the Dumplings: Combine flour, baking powder, salt. Cut in butter, stir in milk. Drop spoonfuls over simmering stew.
- Cook: Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve: Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken.
- For a richer broth, consider adding a splash of cream or top with cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
