Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a steaming pot of Ground Beef and Dumplings. This hearty dish brings together tender ground beef, a medley of vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered to perfection in a rich broth. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and fills your home with inviting, savory aromas. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it is fully cooked. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix in the milk and melted butter until the ingredients are just combined; be careful not to overmix!
- Using a spoon, drop dollops of the dumpling mixture over the surface of the simmering beef stew. Cover the skillet and allow the dumplings to cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are fluffy and cooked through.
- Once cooked, garnish your delicious dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in after adding the beef broth.
- Feel free to swap out the frozen vegetables for any fresh vegetables you have on hand like peas, carrots, or corn.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of basic sautéing and simmering techniques. Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances their natural sweetness, while simmering the beef and vegetables allows the flavors to develop. The dumplings are steamed over the simmering mixture, which keeps them light and fluffy. Don’t worry if they look a bit rustic; that homemade charm is part of what makes this dish so comforting.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat.
Conclusion
Your family will love the savory flavors and comforting textures of this Ground Beef and Dumplings dish. It’s a delightful one-pot wonder that not only fills bellies but also hearts with warmth. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create a meal that will bring smiles around the table!