Ground Beef and Dumplings
A comforting, hearty dish featuring tender ground beef simmered in a savory broth, complemented by light and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean) Juicy and rich in flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds a touch of healthy fat.
- 1 small onion, diced Sweetens the dish as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses a delightful aroma.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Deepens the color and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce.
- 1.5 cups beef broth Provides a robust base.
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Adds an earthy note.
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika A hint of warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasoning.
- 0.5 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional) Adds color and nutrition.
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour The base for fluffy dumplings.
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensures a light texture.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened Adds richness.
- 0.5 cup milk (whole or 2%) Creates the perfect dough consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and allow it to cook until it’s nicely browned.
- Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it until soft and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, mix in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the beef evenly. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and allow it to cook for about a minute; this will help develop the flavors.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Season the mixture with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
Dumpling Preparation
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in the milk until a slightly sticky dough forms.
Cooking
- Using a spoon, drop tablespoons of the dumpling dough evenly on top of the bubbling beef mixture in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to trap steam, ensuring the dumplings are fluffy.
- After 15 minutes, carefully check if the dumplings are light and airy. Allow them to sit for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavor. Feel free to include frozen peas or mixed vegetables for color and nutrition. For a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes. Make sure not to overmix the dumpling dough to keep them fluffy.