If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender, flavorful beef simmered in a rich broth and soft, fluffy dumplings baked right into the mix, every bite is a perfect balance of savory goodness and satisfying texture. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family dinner that calls for something special, this dish delivers on taste and nostalgia without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for nailing the flavor and texture that make the dish so special. Each one plays a key role, from the rich ground beef to the fluffy dumplings and vibrant mixed vegetables.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: The hearty base of this dish that provides rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef nicely and adds a subtle fruity note.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic warmth that enhances the savory profile.
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth: Creates a rich, meaty base for the simmering sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, umami boost that lifts all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces a subtle herby earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing everything together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1½ cups (200g) frozen mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans offer color and a fresh crunch contrast.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the beef mixture for a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient for the dumplings, ensuring they’re tender and fluffy.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise beautifully as they cook.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the dumpling dough and enhances flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds an extra subtle garlic kick to the dumplings.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Offers mild herbaceous notes and a pop of color.
- ½ cup (120ml) milk: Moistens the dumpling dough for tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the dough for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
How to Make Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spoon to create a crumbly texture. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat to keep the flavors clean and prevent greasiness. Next, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring and cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and fill your kitchen with that irresistible savory aroma.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Base
Sprinkle the two tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir thoroughly to coat everything. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, allowing the mixture to thicken into a luscious sauce. Then add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and the frozen mixed vegetables. Let everything simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes — this is where the magic happens; the flavors meld and the veggies soften, making each bite a balanced delight.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the cup of all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, optional garlic powder, and dried parsley. Pour in the milk and melted butter, then stir until you get a sticky, cohesive dough that’s ready to bake atop the simmering beef mixture.
Step 4: Add Dumplings and Simmer
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough carefully onto the bubbling beef mixture. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to low. It’s very important not to lift the lid — let the dumplings steam for 15 minutes, during which they will puff up and cook through to tender, pillowy perfection.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings have risen and cooked, remove the pot from heat. Spoon the savory beef and dumplings into bowls, and get ready for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in every mouthful.
How to Serve Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives on top adds a vibrant, fresh contrast to the rich, hearty stew. If you like a bit of tang, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt works beautifully as well, adding creaminess and brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted root vegetables for extra layers of texture and flavor. For a bit of crunch, crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe in rustic individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a cozy feel. You can also add grated cheese on top of the dumplings near the end of cooking for a melty, golden crust that adds a fun twist to this classic comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead supper for busy nights.
Freezing
This meal freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the dumplings’ fluffy texture and prevent the beef from drying out. A splash of broth or water can help refresh the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative; just be mindful that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to boost seasoning or add a splash of soy sauce for umami.
What if I don’t have baking powder for the dumplings?
Baking powder is key to achieving fluffy dumplings since it acts as a leavening agent. If you don’t have any, you can try substituting with ¼ teaspoon baking soda plus ½ teaspoon cream of tartar, but fresh baking powder is best.
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
You sure can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum to keep the texture light and fluffy. Just be sure to pick one labeled for baking to get the best results.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked through?
The dumplings are done when they’ve puffed up and feel firm to the touch but still tender inside. Cooking under the covered pot for 15 minutes typically ensures they’re fully cooked.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Add a dash of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture as it simmers. This will give your Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe a warming kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal like this Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe. It’s cozy, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to put together, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo when you need a little comfort food. I can’t recommend it enough — give it a try and let those dumplings work their magic!
Print
Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Savory Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe features tender ground beef simmered in a flavorful broth with mixed vegetables, topped with fluffy, homemade dumplings. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish combines hearty ingredients and simple preparation for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups (200g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Dumplings
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and the frozen mixed vegetables. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and vegetables are heated through.
- Prepare Dumpling Dough: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder (if using), and dried parsley. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Add Dumplings and Simmer: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure the dumplings steam properly and become fluffy.
- Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Serve the beef and dumplings hot in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Do not lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking to ensure they steam properly.
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables with fresh veggies if preferred.
- To make the dish dairy-free, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a thicker broth, add an extra tablespoon of flour when thickening or reduce broth slightly.
