Ground Beef And Dumplings

Introduction

This cozy ground beef and dumplings idea turns weeknight cooking into a comforting celebration without fuss. A rich, savory gravy coats fluffy dumplings that steam gently on top, making a dinner everyone will ask for again. It is fast enough for busy evenings yet pretty enough for a simple family gathering. For more inspiring quick dinner ideas, try these weeknight dinner favorites that pair well with this dish.

9 Cozy Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipes for a Fancy Yet Easy Dinner

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe feels fancy because of the glossy, tomato-kissed gravy and billowy dumplings that puff up like little clouds. It is easy because the whole meal cooks in one skillet, so cleanup is quick and stress free. Ground beef gives familiar comfort while tomato paste and Worcestershire add layers of savory depth. You can adapt herbs and spices to match your pantry or serve with a simple green salad for contrast. If you enjoy quick, wholesome meals that still feel special, explore more quick healthy meals to round out your menu.

Flavor and Texture

The base is deeply savory with a gentle sweetness from the tomato paste and a background tang from Worcestershire sauce. Browning the beef builds caramelized notes that make every spoonful satisfying. The gravy becomes silky after a little flour and simmering, clinging to the dumplings so each bite is saucy and warm. Dumplings are tender on the inside with a slightly pillowy exterior when steamed properly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives at the end brightens the whole plate.

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
– ½ cup milk
– Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced onion; cook until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Brown Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks; drain any excess fat and stir in tomato paste, cooking 1 minute.
3. Make Gravy: Sprinkle the two tablespoons of flour over the beef and stir well to coat, then slowly add beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps; add Worcestershire sauce and thyme and simmer 5 to 7 minutes to thicken.
4. Prepare Dumpling Dough: In a bowl whisk together one cup flour, baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt; cut in cold cubed butter until the mixture is crumbly, then stir in milk to form a sticky dough.
5. Cook Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering beef mixture, cover the skillet tightly, reduce heat to low, and steam for 15 to 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
6. Finish & Serve: Remove the lid, check that dumplings are cooked through in the center, garnish with chopped parsley or chives, and serve hot.

Tips for Best Results

Brown the beef well so you get those deep caramelized bits that add flavor to the gravy. When adding broth to the flour coated meat, pour slowly and stir constantly to prevent lumps. Use cold butter in the dumpling dough to ensure a tender, flaky texture. Keep the lid on while dumplings steam so they rise evenly and stay moist. If the gravy thickens too much while steaming, add a splash of warm broth or water to loosen it.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for best texture. Dumplings will soften over time but the flavor holds up well when reheated gently on the stove. For make ahead, prepare the beef base and refrigerate separately, then make and steam dumplings just before serving. You can freeze the gravy without dumplings for up to two months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thought

This ground beef and dumplings approach gives you cozy, comforting flavors with minimal effort, perfect for cold evenings or casual celebrations. It dresses up easily with fresh herbs or a side of roasted vegetables. Simple techniques yield a meal that looks and tastes thoughtful without taking hours to make.