Name: Ground Beef and Dumplings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth); 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables; 10.5 ounces condensed cheddar soup; 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (12 ounces) refrigerated biscuits ((10 biscuits))

Introduction to Ground Beef and Dumplings

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the heartwarming appeal of Ground Beef and Dumplings. This delightful meal combines tender ground beef with fluffy, biscuit-like dumplings, all nestled in a rich and creamy stew. Whether you're winding down after a long day or gathering with loved ones for a cozy dinner, this dish has a knack for bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table.

What makes Ground Beef and Dumplings a comforting meal? The answer lies in its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef provides a robust foundation, while the dumplings add a soft, pillowy contrast. Each bite delivers a little taste of home, reminiscent of family gatherings or holiday feasts. The inclusion of hearty mixed vegetables not only keeps it nutritious but also adds bursts of color that make the dish visually appealing.

Plus, it's incredibly versatile. Adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand! Use turkey bacon or chicken ham for a leaner twist, or swap out the vegetables to suit your taste. Interested in exploring more about comfort food? Check out this insightful piece on the science of comfort food to delve deeper into why we love these dishes so much!

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings

When it comes to creating a cozy, soul-warming meal, the ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings are key. Nothing beats the combination of tender beef, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy sauce. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dish!

Essential Ingredients

1 pound ground beef: The star of our dish, beef adds bold flavor.
1 cup diced yellow onion: This savory base adds sweetness and depth.
3 garlic cloves, minced: For a hint of warmth and aroma.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a rich, hearty foundation.
12-ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables: Easy and nutritious—great for a quick dinner.
10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup and 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup: These bring creaminess and flavor.
1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy cream: For that extra luscious consistency.
Herbs and spices: 2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper round out the flavors.
1 (12-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits: These are our delightful dumplings, ready in no time!

By having these ingredients on hand, you can whip up a comforting pot of Ground Beef and Dumplings that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to cook? Let’s get started!

Preparing Ground Beef and Dumplings

If you're looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’ll impress your friends or family, ground beef and dumplings are the way to go. This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with pillowy dumplings, creating a satisfying dinner—perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to get you on your way!

Brown the Ground Beef and Onion

Start by grabbing a large pot. Crumble 1 pound of ground beef and add 1 cup of diced yellow onion. Sauté them together over medium heat. You want to cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. One tip? Drain any excess grease before returning the beef and onions to the pot. This keeps the dish from becoming too greasy and allows the flavors to shine. Think of this step as laying the foundation of a delicious stew! For more tricks on browning meat, check out this guide.

Add Minced Garlic for Flavor

Next up, it's time to amp up the flavor. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic to your pot. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. Garlic is a fantastic way to build flavor in any dish, and it pairs perfectly with the ground beef. Can you smell it already? If you're a fan of garlic, you can even throw in a bit more!

Combine the Liquids and Soups

This is where the magic starts to happen! Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth if you prefer). Then, toss in a 12-ounce bag of frozen mixed vegetables. Next, add 10.5 oz of condensed cheddar soup and 10.5 oz of condensed cream of chicken soup. For creaminess, pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Season with 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder along with ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until it's well mixed, and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Cut and Add the Biscuits

While the mixture is heating up, take your 12-ounce can of refrigerated biscuits and cut each one into six pieces. This is where you can really personalize it—make the pieces bigger or smaller based on your preference. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low-medium and gently add the biscuit pieces one at a time, stirring until they’re combined.

Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows those dumplings to puff up beautifully while soaking up all the delicious flavors. Give it a stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. When you’re ready to serve, just taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

And there you have it—your ground beef and dumplings are all set! Now, gather your loved ones, grab a big bowl, and dig in. You won’t regret taking this delicious journey!

Variations on Ground Beef and Dumplings

Spicy Ground Beef Variation

For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your ground beef as it cooks. A few diced jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile even more. This twist not only adds heat but also a delightful depth that complements the creamy dumplings.

Vegetarian Dumpling Alternative

If you're looking for a vegetarian take on the classic, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. You can also create dumplings using biscuits made from whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in your dumplings can add a burst of flavor that everyone can enjoy!

For additional inspiration, feel free to explore resources like The Spruce Eats or AllRecipes for more variations on ground beef and dumplings!

Cooking tips for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Creating delicious Ground Beef and Dumplings is all about flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly. It adds a rich depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stew.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can make a significant difference. If you have them on hand, feel free to swap dried herbs for fresh versions to bring out vibrant notes in the dish.
Customize Your Dumplings: Whether you prefer pillowy biscuit-like dumplings or a heartier version, experimenting with different biscuit doughs can lead to delightful variations. Try cutting the biscuits into different shapes for a fun presentation.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with the mixed vegetables; adding unique ingredients like frozen green beans or corn can make your Ground Beef and Dumplings truly your own!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Dumplings

When it comes to serving Ground Beef and Dumplings, a few extra touches can elevate your meal from good to fantastic! Here are some friendly ideas:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Pair with a Simple Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, vinaigrette, or a classic Caesar can balance your dish's richness.
Serve with Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the delicious stew-like sauce, a loaf of crusty bread is a must-have.
Comforting Beverage Options: Pair your meal with sparkling water, herbal tea, or apple cider for a wholesome touch.

These serving ideas will ensure your dinner is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making your Ground Beef and Dumplings a standout!

Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for Ground Beef and Dumplings takes just 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to dice your onion, mince the garlic, and gather all your ingredients, so everything’s within reach when you start cooking.

Cooking Time

The cooking time is 25 minutes. You’ll brown the beef, mix in the hearty ingredients, and let it all simmer while those fluffy dumplings cook to perfection.

Total Time

In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a delicious pot of Ground Beef and Dumplings that’s sure to impress! It’s a great option for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and filling.

For more quick meal ideas, check out resources like the USDA's MyPlate, which can help you balance your meals with healthy ingredients!

Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Calories

One serving of Ground Beef and Dumplings packs approximately 704 calories. This hearty dish is ideal for a satisfying dinner after a long day.

Protein

Each serving offers around 35 grams of protein, making it a great choice to help meet your daily protein needs. Thanks to the ground beef, this meal supports muscle repair and growth.

Sodium

It's important to note that this dish contains about 1000 mg of sodium per serving. While delicious, consider pairing it with fresh vegetables to balance out the meal and increase your overall nutrient intake.

For more information on dietary guidelines, you can check out resources from the American Heart Association or the USDA.

FAQs about Ground Beef and Dumplings

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Ground Beef and Dumplings is a great recipe for meal prep. You can make the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld even more!

What kind of broth works best?

While the recipe calls for low-sodium chicken broth, you can definitely switch it up! Beef broth lends a heartier flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Ground Beef and Dumplings. For those looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can work well too—just be sure to add some extra herbs for a flavor boost.

Are there any alternatives to refrigerated biscuits?

If you’re looking to skip the refrigerated biscuits, homemade dumplings are a fantastic alternative. Simply mix flour, baking powder, salt, and milk to create a simple dough. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the simmering broth for fluffy dumplings. You can also experiment with other store-bought options like biscuit mixes or even gnocchi for a twist!

Conclusion on Ground Beef and Dumplings

Ground Beef and Dumplings is a cozy dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. With its hearty beef and fluffy dumplings swimming in a creamy sauce, it's perfect for any weeknight dinner. Share it with loved ones, and watch it become a family favorite!