Ground Beef and Dumplings
A delightful comfort food that combines tender ground beef with fluffy dumplings, perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean) Provides flavor without excessive grease.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil To sauté the aromatics.
- 1 small onion, diced Brings sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a fragrant twist.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Adds richness and a hint of acidity.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickening agent for the sauce.
- 1.5 cups beef broth Base for the flavorful mixture.
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Bringing a warm herbal note.
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika Adding color and mild smokiness.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential to round out the flavors.
- 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional) For added nutrition and color.
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Foundation for fluffy dumplings.
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Key ingredient for leavening.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt A little seasoning for flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened Adds richness to the dough.
- 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2 percent) To hydrate and bind the dumpling mixture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, and brown it until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft. Add the minced garlic and continue stirring until it becomes fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to combine with the meat and onion. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, helping to thicken the sauce.
- Gradually add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes until thickened.
Dumpling Preparation
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Work in the softened butter until crumbly, then stir in the milk until just combined.
- Drop large spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly on top of the simmering beef mixture.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes.
- Check the dumplings for tenderness. Allow the dish to sit uncovered for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. You can also add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor or sprinkle cheese on the dumplings during the last few minutes of steaming.