Ground Beef and Dumplings
A wholesome dish that blends tender chunks of meat with fluffy dumplings, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the beef mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using leaner beef) Optional for leaner beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups beef broth
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables Optional
For the dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2 percent)
Instructions
Cooking the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- If using leaner beef, drain any excess fat after cooking.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for a minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and gradually stir in the beef broth, stirring until smooth.
- Season with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until thickened.
Making the Dumplings
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in the milk until a sticky dough forms.
Cooking the Dumplings
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the simmering beef mixture, covering the surface evenly.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low, allowing the dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes.
- Check the dumplings for doneness and let them rest uncovered for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs. Variations can include using ground turkey or different vegetables.