Ground Beef and Dumplings
A comforting dish that combines perfectly seasoned ground beef with fluffy dumplings, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85 percent lean) Provides a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil A healthy fat for sautéing.
- 1 small onion, diced Adds depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Contributes tartness and richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the mixture.
- 1.5 cups beef broth The flavorful liquid base.
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Herbaceous note that complements beef.
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika Adds smokiness to the dish.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
- 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional) For added color and nutrients.
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Base for fluffy dumplings.
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Adds lift to the dumplings.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened Creates tender dumplings.
- 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2%) Binds the dumpling ingredients.
Instructions
Preparation of Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for a minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously.
- Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes until thickened.
Preparation of Dumplings
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate softened butter until you achieve a coarse, crumbly texture.
- Gradually stir in milk until a cohesive dough forms.
Cooking
- Drop dollops of the dumpling dough onto the bubbling beef mixture, ensuring to cover the surface.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Steam the dumplings for about 15 minutes.
- Check dumplings for doneness; they should have risen nicely. Let sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish.
Notes
For best results, don't overcrowd the skillet. Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat, and consider fresh herbs for aroma. Use prepackaged dumpling mix if short on time.