Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a meal that brings everyone to the table, and my Comforting Ground Beef and Dumplings with Hearty Beef Gravy is just that! This dish effortlessly combines rich, savory flavors with fluffy dumplings, transforming any ordinary evening into a cozy feast that the whole family will adore. Best of all, it’s a quick prep—perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving homemade goodness without the fuss. Plus, it offers endless customization: whether you stick to beef or try ground turkey for a lighter option, you’ll find a delightful version that fits your family’s taste. Are you ready to create this heartwarming dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas? Let’s dive in! Why is this dish a family favorite? Comfort Food Vibes: This dish captures the essence of comfort food, with hearty ground beef and fluffy dumplings wrapped in luscious gravy that warms the soul. Quick Preparation: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked warmth. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer classic ground beef or a lighter option like ground turkey, you can tailor this recipe to suit every palate in your family. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its rich flavors and delightful textures, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds! Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for an even more satisfying meal. Nutritional Boost: Easily add vegetables or tweak ingredients to fit dietary needs, such as going gluten-free or choosing non-dairy alternatives while still enjoying wonderful flavors. This recipe is a great way to impress with minimal effort! Ground Beef and Dumplings Ingredients For the Beef Mixture Ground beef – the primary protein source adds richness; you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. Onion – adds sweetness and depth of flavor; use yellow or white onions for the best results. Garlic – enhances savory flavors; fresh garlic is preferred over powdered for better taste. Worcestershire sauce – adds umami flavor; avoid if gluten-sensitive, and use tamari instead. Black pepper – provides mild heat; adjust according to personal taste. For the Gravy Beef broth – forms the base of the gravy, providing moisture and flavor; for a lighter broth, consider using chicken broth. Salt and Sugar – enhance overall flavor; adjust salt based on personal taste or dietary needs. For the Dumplings All-purpose flour – used for dumpling structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Baking powder – acts as a leavening agent for fluffy dumplings; ensure it’s fresh for proper rise. Milk – adds moisture to dumplings; you can use non-dairy milk for a vegan option. Olive oil – used for sautéing beef and vegetables; can be replaced with butter for a richer flavor. Fresh parsley – for garnish, adding color and freshness; omit if unavailable. Enjoy crafting your Ground Beef and Dumplings, a dish that’s both satisfying and customizable to your family’s tastes! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Dumplings Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, cooking until it’s nicely browned—about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep your Ground Beef and Dumplings hearty and rich without being greasy. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the beef, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir frequently and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the onions turn soft and translucent. This step enhances the flavors in the Ground Beef and Dumplings, creating a savory base for the gravy. Step 3: Prepare the Beef Gravy In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of beef broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Feel free to add Worcestershire sauce and adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences. Allow the broth to stay warm while you prepare the dumpling dough, ensuring that your Ground Beef and Dumplings will be infused with rich, savory flavors. Step 4: Make the Dumpling Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, a pinch of salt, and ¾ cup of milk. Stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the dough tender. The fluffy dumplings will be a delightful complement to the hearty beef mixture in your Ground Beef and Dumplings. Step 5: Drop the Dumplings Gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering beef broth, allowing enough space between each to ensure they don’t touch. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they puff up and appear fluffy, adding a comforting texture to your dish. Step 6: Combine and Serve Once the dumplings are fully cooked, carefully combine the beef mixture with the dumplings and broth, stirring gently to combine. Serve your Ground Beef and Dumplings hot in bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This comforting dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your family dinner table! Ground Beef and Dumplings Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe; your taste buds will thank you for the delightful customizations! Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner dish. It brings a lighter flavor while still being hearty and satisfying. Cheesy Dumplings: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into your dumpling dough for an added creamy texture. Just imagine the gooey goodness! Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots, peas, or corn to the beef mixture for a nutritional lift. Vegetable-packed dumplings make the dish not only heartier but colorful, too! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for the dumplings, ensuring everyone can join the feast without worries. Just follow the same measurement for a fluffy treat! Herbal Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary in both the beef mixture and the dumpling dough for a fragrant twist. It elevates the dish to a gourmet level! Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the beef for those who love a little heat. This simple change can turn your comfort dish into a spicy delight! Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche into the gravy for an ultra-rich experience, adding creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully. Casserole Style: Layer the ground beef and dumplings in a baking dish, cover with cheese, and bake until golden brown for a comforting, casserole-style meal that’s great for leftovers! If you find yourself curious about more hearty recipes like this, check out my Ground Beef Lettuce or my irresistible Baked Beef Chiles for even more delicious ideas! What to Serve with Ground Beef and Dumplings? Creating a cozy family dinner is all about balancing flavors and textures, making these delightful pairings the perfect complement to your dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the hearty beef gravy beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying. Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crunchy, these fresh green beans add a vibrant color and a nutritious balance to the comforting flavors of the beef and dumplings. Zesty Garden Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall meal experience. Savory Cornbread: Light and fluffy cornbread is perfect for soaking up the beef gravy, adding a hint of sweetness to your comforting dinner. Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the dish, offering a crunchy texture that plays well against the soft dumplings. Chardonnay or Merlot: A glass of Chardonnay or Merlot can elevate your meal, with the wine’s acidity or tannins balancing the richness of the beef gravy. Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of chocolate cake. Its rich, velvety taste offers a delightful way to round off your cozy family dinner. How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them cool to maintain freshness and flavor in your delicious Ground Beef and Dumplings. Freezer: For long-term storage, place the dish in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best taste. Reheating: Gently reheat portions in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep the dumplings moist and fluffy. Enjoy your cozy meal again! Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Dumplings Even Browning: Ensure you sauté the ground beef until it’s evenly browned to enhance the flavor through caramelization, which adds depth to your Ground Beef and Dumplings. Dumplings Separation: Avoid the common mistake of letting dumplings touch each other while cooking; this ensures they rise properly and remain fluffy. Vegetable Boost: If using frozen vegetables, add them when sautéing the beef and onions to incorporate extra nutrition and flavor into your dish. Dough Handling: Be gentle when mixing your dumpling dough; overmixing can lead to tough dumplings that don’t have that light and fluffy texture you desire. Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually. Taste the broth and gravy before serving, as personal preferences may vary, ensuring your Ground Beef and Dumplings are perfectly seasoned. Make Ahead Options Preparing Ground Beef and Dumplings ahead of time can be a real game-changer for busy weeknights! You can cook the ground beef mixture (steps 1 and 2) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain quality. The dumpling dough can also be mixed in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the beef mixture on the stove, bring beef broth to a simmer, drop in your freshly made dumplings, and simmer until cooked. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family! Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ground beef? Choosing the right ground beef is crucial for flavor and texture. Look for ground beef that has a good balance of lean to fat content; I recommend 80/20 for a flavorful dish without being too greasy. Fresh ground beef should be bright red and avoid packages with dark spots or excessive liquid, which may indicate spoilage. What’s the best way to store leftover Ground Beef and Dumplings? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can affect texture. If you find there are quite a few leftovers, consider portioning them out for easy reheating later! Can I freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings? Absolutely! To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It can be safely frozen for 2-3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. What if my dumplings aren’t fluffy? If your dumplings turn out dense, there are a few common reasons. Overmixing the dough can lead to toughness, so handle it gently. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising. Lastly, don’t let dumplings touch while cooking, as they need room to expand. Are there any dietary substitutions I can make for Ground Beef and Dumplings? Absolutely! For a lighter dish, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour for the dumplings. Dairy-free? Simply swap out regular milk for almond or oat milk without compromising flavor. Can I add vegetables to my Ground Beef and Dumplings? Yes! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor. I often add frozen mixed vegetables when sautéing the onions and beef. Just toss them in, and they will cook perfectly as you simmer everything together. Carrots, peas, or even chopped spinach work wonderfully! Ground Beef and Dumplings for Cozy Family Dinners Ground Beef and Dumplings is a comforting meal that brings the family together, featuring savory flavors and fluffy dumplings in hearty beef gravy. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef Mixture1 pound Ground beef can substitute with ground turkey1 medium Onion diced2 cloves Garlic minced1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce avoid if gluten-sensitiveto taste Black pepperFor the Gravy4 cups Beef broth or chicken broth for lighter optionto taste Saltto taste SugarFor the Dumplings2 cups All-purpose flour can substitute with gluten-free flour2 teaspoons Baking powder ensure it's fresh¾ cup Milk can use non-dairy milk2 tablespoons Olive oil or butter for richer flavorto taste Fresh parsley for garnish Equipment Large SkilletPotMixing bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.In a separate pot, bring beef broth to a gentle simmer. Add Worcestershire sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and milk. Stir until just combined.Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering beef broth, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.Once dumplings are cooked, combine the beef mixture with dumplings and broth. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesThis recipe is highly customizable to suit your family's tastes and dietary preferences, offering a comforting meal for any night of the week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
