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, see notes); 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 refrigerated biscuits ((12 ounce can, 10 biscuits, see notes below))

Introduction to Ground Beef and Dumplings

Ground beef and dumplings are a delightful twist on the beloved classic chicken and dumplings, offering comfort and hearty flavor that busy young professionals crave. Whether you’re just coming home from a long day or looking to impress friends with minimal effort, this dish truly shines in its simplicity. In about 35 minutes, you can whip up a warm pot of comfort that feeds six—perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner.

Why This Dish is a Game Changer for Busy Young Professionals

Transitioning to life as a young professional often means juggling work, social commitments, and personal life. The good news is, ground beef and dumplings provide a satisfying meal without sucking up all your free time. The combination of tender, seasoned beef with fluffy dumplings results in a delicious one-pot meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ease of preparation is at the forefront: just brown the beef, toss in some veggies and broth, and let everything simmer. Plus, using easy-to-handle refrigerated biscuits allows you to customize the dumpling sizes to suit your taste. If you’re curious about how to add variety to meal planning, check out this helpful resource on meal prep tips for busy professionals.

With a comforting combination of flavors and a straightforward cooking process, this dish can quickly become a weekly staple in your household. Don't miss out on experiencing the joy of ground beef and dumplings in every easy-to-make bite!

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Essential components for a hearty meal

When whipping up a cozy dish like ground beef and dumplings, you'll want to gather some essential ingredients to ensure it's hearty and satisfying. Here's what you need:

1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the show—opt for lean beef for a balanced meal.
1 cup diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: This serves as the tasty base for your stew.
12-ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables: A great time-saver that adds nutrition and color.
Condensed soups: 10.5 oz each of cheddar and cream of chicken soups provide creaminess.
1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy cream: These give richness and flavor to the dish.

Optional ingredients for personal flair

Feel free to mix things up by incorporating optional ingredients to make this dish your own. Some suggestions include:

Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor.
Spices: Consider adding a touch of paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.
Additional veggies: Fresh spinach or diced bell peppers can add a pop of freshness.

With these ingredients, you’re set to create a delightful evening dish that’s sure to impress! For more cooking tips, check out sources like Bon Appétit or Food Network.

Preparing Ground Beef and Dumplings

Cooking a hearty meal like ground beef and dumplings can feel daunting, but no worries! I'm here to guide you through each step, making it as simple and enjoyable as possible. Let’s break down the process together.

Sautéing the beef and onions

Start by heating a pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 cup of diced yellow onion. Cook until the beef is browned, crumbling it as you go. This step is essential, as the beef adds great flavor and the onions become sweet and caramelized. After about 5–7 minutes, if you've got any excess grease, drain it before moving to the next step. You’ll want to keep all that delicious flavor while avoiding an overly greasy dish.

Adding the aromatics and soups

Once your beef and onions are beautifully cooked, it’s time to add some depth to our mix! Toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. Next, add in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth (depending on your preference—both work splendidly!). Then, stir in condensed cheddar soup and cream of chicken soup, along with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream for that rich creaminess.

Don’t forget to sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and a bit of garlic and onion powder to amp up the flavors. Stir everything until well combined and bring it to a boil. Cooking is all about building layers of flavor, and this combination sets the foundation for a creamy bliss!

Incorporating mixed vegetables

While things are boiling away, it's time to bulk up your stew! Add in a 12-ounce bag of frozen mixed vegetables. These will add color and nutrients, making your ground beef and dumplings not only delicious but also nutritious! Stir everything together and marvel at the vibrant blend of colors.

Preparing the biscuits for dumplings

With your pot simmering, grab a 12-ounce can of refrigerated biscuits. Cut each biscuit into six pieces. Feel free to cut them a bit bigger if you like chunkier dumplings! These will be the fluffy stars of your dish, soaking up all the rich, savory goodness.

Simmering to perfection

Reduce the heat to low-medium and gently add the biscuit pieces to your boiling pot. Stir until they’re well mixed in but be careful not to over-stir. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The heat will cook the biscuits, creating that divine fluffy texture we all love. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Before serving, taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Your meal is now ready to enjoy!

Feel free to serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner. Enjoy your homemade ground beef and dumplings!

Variations on Ground Beef and Dumplings

Skillet Version for Quicker Preparation

If you're short on time but still craving that delightful mix of ground beef and dumplings, a skillet version is your go-to! Simply brown the ground beef with onions and garlic in a large skillet. Then, add your broth, mixed veggies, and soup bases. Instead of drop-style dumplings, use store-bought biscuit dough, cutting it into smaller pieces, and cook them right in the skillet. The result is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s ready in about 20 minutes!

For more quick meal ideas, check out this resource on fast family dinners.

Vegetarian Alternative with Plant-Based Ground Meat

Craving ground beef and dumplings but prefer a vegetarian option? Swap out the beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat. The preparation remains largely the same; just cook the plant-based meat in the pot with onions and garlic. You can also experiment with vegetable broth and add a splash of soy or almond milk for creaminess. This variation not only maintains the savory flavor but also ensures everyone at your table finds a comforting option, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Explore more about plant-based meals here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Tips for Keeping Your Dumplings Fluffy

To achieve those light and fluffy dumplings, consider these simple tricks:

Don’t overmix: When adding the biscuit pieces, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser dumplings.
Steam them right: Make sure to keep the pot covered while simmering. This helps maintain steam, essential for that fluffy texture.
Fresh ingredients: Using fresh ingredients can also make a noticeable difference in texture and taste—opt for high-quality refrigerated biscuits.

Notes on Broth Choices for Better Flavor

Choosing the right broth can elevate your ground beef and dumplings dish immensely. Consider these options:

Chicken vs. Beef broth: While low-sodium chicken broth is commonly used, beef broth can add a richer flavor to the dish. For a deeper taste, try a mix of both!
Herbal enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your broth for extra depth.
Season to taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can perfect the flavor.

For more tips on customizing your broth flavors, check out this article on broth types.

By following these tips, your ground beef and dumplings will delight your dinner table!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Pairing It with Bread for a Complete Meal

To take your ground beef and dumplings to the next level, consider pairing it with a warm, crusty bread. A fresh baguette or buttery dinner rolls can be perfect for scooping up that rich sauce. The complementary textures of the soft dumplings and the crusty bread create a delightful dining experience, making every bite feel hearty and satisfying.

Creative Side Dishes to Elevate Your Dining Experience

If you're looking to elevate your meal, try serving your ground beef and dumplings alongside some vibrant, fresh side dishes. Consider:

A crisp garden salad with seasonal veggies and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Roasted asparagus or green beans tossed with olive oil and garlic for a simple, yet sophisticated side (check out a great guide on roasting vegetables).
Maybe even some sweet corn on the cob, which adds a sweet crunch that balances the savory stew.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also add nutritional value, ensuring you have a well-rounded dining experience. What’s your go-to side when serving ground beef and dumplings?

Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Preparation Time

In just 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to go for your delicious ground beef and dumplings. That’s the perfect amount of time to chop your onions, mince garlic, and gather your ingredients.

Cooking Time

Once everything is set, the cooking process takes about 25 minutes. This includes browning the ground beef, simmering the mixture, and cooking those fluffy dumplings to perfection.

Total Time

All in all, you’re looking at a total time of 35 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips for Effortless Cooking

Read the Recipe Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the steps to streamline your cooking.
Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop your vegetables the night before to save time.

For more tips on streamlining your cooking process, you can explore suggestions from culinary experts at America’s Test Kitchen.

Get Cooking!

Now that you know how to manage your time, why not whip up this mouthwatering dish? The combination of savory ground beef and comforting dumplings is sure to become a family favorite! Plus, it’s a great opportunity to experiment with variations and make it your own. Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Dumplings

Calories

Each serving of ground beef and dumplings comes in at approximately 704 calories, making it a hearty meal perfect for cozy dinners.

Protein

Packed with about 36 grams of protein, this dish provides a strong protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Main Nutrients and Benefits

Ground beef and dumplings are rich in key vitamins and minerals like iron and vitamin B12, which support energy levels and overall wellness. The combination of protein, nourishing fats from cream, and vegetables contributes to a balanced meal, ideal for keeping you satisfied.

FAQs about Ground Beef and Dumplings

What can I use instead of ground beef?

If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef in your Ground Beef and Dumplings, there are several tasty options! You could use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner dish. Alternatively, plant-based options like lentils or meat substitutes like soy crumbles or jackfruit work wonderfully for a vegetarian twist. Experimenting with different proteins can add unique flavors and textures to your dish!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing ground beef and dumplings in advance can save you time during busy weekdays. You can cook the beef and the sauce, store them in the refrigerator, and add the dumplings just before you serve. This way, you’ll enjoy the fluffy dumplings without compromising on freshness. Just ensure that the dumplings are not added until you're ready to cook to retain their texture.

How do I store leftovers properly?

To keep your ground beef and dumplings fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in separate containers. Just remember to consume frozen leftovers within 3 months for the best quality! For best practices on food storage, you can check out FoodSafety.gov.

Conclusion on Ground Beef and Dumplings

Final thoughts on making homemade comfort food easy and delicious

In conclusion, ground beef and dumplings serve as a perfect staple for a quick, hearty meal. This dish combines tender beef and fluffy dumplings in a creamy sauce, offering a delightful escape into comfort food. Embrace this easy-to-make recipe for cozy dinners that satisfy your cravings!

For tips on enhancing your comfort food experience, check out resources like The Kitchn.