Name: Delicious Ground Beef Dumplings for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken); 1 medium Onion (yellow or white onions work best); 2 cloves Garlic (fresh garlic preferred); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (can swap with crushed tomatoes); 1 cup Beef Broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian version); 1 teaspoon Thyme (can substitute with Italian seasoning); 1 teaspoon Paprika (opt for smoked paprika if desired); to taste Salt (essential seasoning); to taste Pepper (essential seasoning); 2 cups Flour (all-purpose flour yields the best results); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (do not substitute unless necessary); 1/4 cup Butter (can be replaced with plant-based alternative); 3/4 cup Milk (any non-dairy milk works as a substitute)

Ground Beef Dumplings have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy nights when comfort food is a must. This quick and comforting dish features savory beef-filled dumplings that are fluffy and delicious. Perfect for a family dinner, these homemade beef dumplings come together in just 45 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those hectic weekdays.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Dumplings

There are many reasons to adore these beef dumplings. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare and don’t require extensive cooking skills. Second, they offer a fantastic blend of flavors, thanks to the combination of juicy ground beef, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs. Additionally, they are versatile; you can customize the filling with vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Here are some benefits:

Quick prep and cooking time—ideal for busy nights.
Comforting and satisfying, perfect for family meals.
Healthy alternatives can be incorporated easily.
Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.
Can be served with various dipping sauces.
Adaptable to different culinary styles, including Asian-style beef dumplings.

This recipe is categorized as a Main Course and is suitable for those following a Gluten Free diet.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Dumplings

Gather these items:

1 pound Ground Beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
1 medium Onion (yellow or white onions work best)
2 cloves Garlic (fresh garlic preferred)
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (can swap with crushed tomatoes)
1 cup Beef Broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
1 teaspoon Thyme (can substitute with Italian seasoning)
1 teaspoon Paprika (opt for smoked paprika if desired)
to taste Salt (essential seasoning)
to taste Pepper (essential seasoning)
2 cups Flour (all-purpose flour yields the best results)
1 tablespoon Baking Powder (do not substitute unless necessary)
1/4 cup Butter (can be replaced with plant-based alternative)
3/4 cup Milk (any non-dairy milk works as a substitute)

How to Make Ground Beef Dumplings Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for approximately 4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for one minute. Gradually sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring to eliminate lumps. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking.
Step 4: Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture, stirring well. Allow to simmer for 8-10 minutes over low-medium heat until thickened.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt for the dumplings. Cut in the softened butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk and mix until just combined.
Step 6: Spoon heaping tablespoons of dumpling dough over the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Step 7: After steaming, uncover the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve in bowls and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Dumplings

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the resting time after steaming; it helps the dumplings firm up.
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas to the beef mixture for added nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Dumplings

These flavorful dumplings can be enjoyed in several ways:

Pair them with a tangy best dipping sauce for beef dumplings like soy sauce or a homemade chili sauce.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy with a warm broth for a comforting soup experience.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Dumplings

Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam them over boiling water for a few minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their fluffy texture. You can also freeze frozen ground beef dumplings before cooking them; just steam them directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Dumplings

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Dumplings?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors in the filling and ensuring the dumpling dough is not overmixed. This results in tender and fluffy dumplings every time.

Can I make Ground Beef Dumplings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and dough in advance. Simply assemble them before serving, or freeze them for later use.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Dumplings?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the filling is well-seasoned and don’t rush the steaming process. Steaming too quickly can result in doughy dumplings.

Variations of Ground Beef Dumplings You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious twist.
Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Adjust the spices to create savory beef dumplings or even spicy versions for heat lovers.
Consider making traditional beef dumpling recipes from different cultures to explore global flavors.