After a long day chasing deadlines and juggling errands, nothing sounds better than a hearty homemade meal that warms your soul. That’s when I turn to my go-to comfort dish: Ground Beef and Dumplings. The delightful blend of savory ground beef and fluffy biscuit dumplings swimming in a rich, creamy soup makes this easy weeknight dinner feel like a warm hug.
Imagine the aromatic symphony of garlic sizzling in a pan and the satisfying sounds of bubbling soup on the stovetop. In just over 30 minutes, you can transform ordinary ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that the whole family will adore. Plus, this one-pan wonder means fewer dishes and more time for laughter at the dinner table.
Join me in creating this quick yet delicious dish that promises to banish the fast-food blues and elevate your weeknight dining experience!
Why is Ground Beef and Dumplings a Must-Try?
Comforting and Hearty: This dish embodies comfort food at its finest, with tender beef and fluffy dumplings that will warm you from the inside out.
Quick Prep Time: In just 30 minutes, you can create a wholesome meal that fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight schedule.
One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to the chaos of multiple pots and pans, as everything cooks in one dish for easy cleanup.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich, creamy soup pairs perfectly with the savory ingredients, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients as needed, whether you prefer turkey instead of beef or want to swap in fresh veggies.
Elevated Weeknight Dining: Trade fast food for this delightful homemade recipe, giving you and your family a reason to gather around the table with joy.
Ground Beef and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Fat for sautéing; substitute with vegetable oil if desired.
- Lean Ground Beef – Main protein source providing richness and heartiness; could be swapped with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Diced Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; use shallots or leeks as alternatives.
- Chopped Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor intensity; garlic powder can be an alternative (1/4 teaspoon = 1 clove).
- Italian Seasoning – Flavor enhancer combining herbs; replace with a mix of dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
For the Soup
- Condensed Cheddar Soup – Base for creaminess and flavor; substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
- Condensed Cream of Bacon Soup – Adds a smoky flavor; can be replaced with cream of chicken soup for a milder taste.
- Chicken Broth – Liquid base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Half and Half Cream – Provides richness; milk or heavy cream can serve as substitutes, affecting the final thickness.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Adds color and nutrition; swap with fresh or canned vegetables as preferred.
For the Dumplings
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – Forms dumplings; homemade dough can replace store-bought for a fresher taste.
How to Make Ground Beef and Dumplings
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Heat the oil: In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will create a nice base for your savory beef and vegetables.
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Brown the beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring all the delicious juices are locked in.
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Sauté the onions: Toss in the diced yellow onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. The onions should soften and become fragrant, adding depth to the flavor.
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Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the chopped garlic along with the Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until everything is well combined and aromatic.
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Mix in soup and broth: Pour in the condensed cheddar soup, cream of bacon soup, chicken broth, and half and half. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Incorporate vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables and bring the mixture to a boil. This step will infuse the whole dish with vibrant color and nutrition.
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Prepare biscuit dough: While waiting for the pot to boil, cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into six pieces. These fluffy dumplings will be the perfect topping for your meal!
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Add dumplings: Once boiling, gently add the biscuit pieces. Stir them in quickly, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low.
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Simmer and rest: Let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Afterward, give it a gentle stir and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ground Beef and Dumplings Variations
Customize your comforting dish with these delightful twists that will make it even more enjoyable!
- Healthier Swap: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Veggie-Packed: Add fresh spinach or kale to incorporate more greens. Simply stir them in just before serving for vibrant color and nutrition!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk instead of half and half to create a creamy, dairy-free version that still delivers great taste.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
- Homemade Dumplings: Craft your own dumplings with a simple mix of flour, baking powder, and milk for that fresh-baked taste and texture. They’ll absorb all the delicious flavors beautifully!
- Savory Additions: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for additional savory notes, enriching each bite with delicious umami.
- Flavorful Broth: Experiment with vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a different base that enhances the overall flavor profile, especially if using subtler ingredients.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added at the end of cooking for a fragrant finish that elevates the dish to new heights!
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Dumplings?
Imagine a dinner table adorned with vibrant colors and inviting aromas, bringing your loved ones together for a truly delightful mealtime experience.
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Light Garden Salad: The crisp, fresh greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the dumplings.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like carrots and broccoli add a touch of sweetness and a great depth of flavor that balances well with the savory beef.
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Buttery Corn on the Cob: This sweet and tender side pairs beautifully with the hearty dish, offering a juicy burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
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Garlic Bread: Adding slices of warm, buttery garlic bread creates a textural contrast and is perfect for soaking up the creamy soup.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy coleslaw complements the dish, bringing a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the meal.
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Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of white wine enhances the flavors of the dish and makes for a sophisticated touch to your comfort food experience.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm, spiced apple crisp adds a sweet finish to your meal, echoing the comforting flavors of your main dish.
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Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream: This indulgent drink provides a sweet, cozy element that pairs perfectly, wrapping up the meal in a delightful, comforting way.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture for up to 3 days in advance—just sauté the onions, beef, garlic, and mix in the soups and broth, then refrigerate the finished base. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting dish, simply heat the mixture until it simmers, add the biscuit dough pieces, and cook as directed. This preparation not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures that when you’re ready to serve, you’ll have a hearty and delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Dumplings
- Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned before adding other ingredients to maximize flavor and richness in your dish.
- No Peeking Allowed: Avoid lifting the lid during simmering, as steam is essential for cooking the dumplings to fluffy perfection.
- Flavor Integration: Stir the dish well after simmering to ensure the flavors meld beautifully and the creamy soup coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different frozen or fresh vegetables; just be mindful of cooking times to keep them tender.
- Dough Alternatives: If you want a unique twist, try replacing refrigerated biscuit dough with homemade dumplings or cornbread for a delightful texture twist.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the dish is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ground beef and dumplings in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, labeling with the date for your reference.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
Serving Note: Always ensure the dish is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using lean ground beef. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well and still maintain the dish’s heartiness.
How do I store leftovers of Ground Beef and Dumplings?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to help retain freshness. Just pop it in the fridge and it will be ready to enjoy again soon!
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Dumplings?
Very! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then pack it into a freezer-safe container, ensuring to label it with the date. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore the creamy texture.
What if I noticed my dumplings are too dense?
If your dumplings turned out dense, it could be due to overmixing the biscuit dough or not enough steaming during cooking. Make sure to handle the biscuit dough gently and avoid lifting the lid while they simmer—this ensures they get the proper steam needed to rise and become fluffy.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize the ingredients according to dietary needs. For instance, use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian and substitute the cream soups with dairy-free alternatives if lactose intolerant. Always check for any allergens in your ingredient choices, and feel free to adjust the vegetable mix to meet any allergies in your family.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in this recipe?
Yes, you certainly can! Fresh vegetables can add an incredible taste and texture. Just keep in mind that fresh veggies may require slight adjustments in cooking time—typically, you should sauté them for a few minutes before adding to the soup base to ensure they become tender. It allows all the flavors to meld beautifully!
Ground Beef and Dumplings: Cozy Comfort Food in One Pan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the diced yellow onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped garlic along with the Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the condensed cheddar soup, cream of bacon soup, chicken broth, and half and half. Stir until smooth.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and bring the mixture to a boil.
- While waiting for the pot to boil, cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into six pieces.
- Once boiling, gently add the biscuit pieces. Stir them in quickly, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Afterward, stir and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.