Ground Beef and Dumplings 

Ground Beef and Dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This one pan meal combines savory ground beef in a rich, flavorful gravy, topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious juices. It's a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is very lean)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon all purpose flour

• 2 cups low sodium beef broth

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)

Directions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Gravy: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until it thickens into a gravy-like consistency. If using, stir in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables.

4. Make the Dumplings: While the beef mixture is simmering, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

5. Add the Dumplings: Spoon the dumpling batter over the simmering beef mixture, forming about 8–10 dumplings. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dumplings steam for 15–20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Serve: Gently remove the dumplings and beef mixture from the skillet and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 700mg