Ground Beef Stew with Dumplings

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of stew, especially when it’s brimming with tender ground beef and fluffy dumplings. It evokes the essence of home, where love and nourishment come together, often on a chilly evening after a long day. This recipe for Ground Beef Stew with Dumplings has been a staple in my kitchen, frequently making appearances during family dinners and cozy nights in. The simplicity of the ingredients helps you whip it up on a weeknight, while the savory aroma fills your home, tempting everyone to gather around the table.

Why you’ll love this dish

What makes this stew truly outstanding is its ability to bring joy without demanding too much time or effort. It’s budget-friendly and versatile, perfect for families or anyone seeking a nourishing meal that warms the soul. Picture this: it’s a busy Tuesday evening, the kids are slightly cranky from a long day, and the last thing you want is to fuss over dinner. Enter this delightful stew, drawing you in with its simplicity. One-pot meals like this are perfect for weeknights, offering minimal cleanup while maximizing comfort.

"This stew is pure love in a bowl! The dumplings are light and fluffy, soaking up all the delicious flavors. My family can’t get enough!" – Sarah, home cook.

The cooking process explained

Making Ground Beef Stew with Dumplings is as straightforward as it gets — no need for culinary school credentials here! You’ll start by browning the beef, filling your kitchen with savory scents. As the meat sizzles, you’ll bring in an array of chopped vegetables and broth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The final touch? Soft, pillowy dumplings that float on top of this hearty concoction. Now let’s gather those ingredients so we can dive right in!

What you’ll need

• 1 pound ground beef: This forms the heart of the stew, providing rich flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: The base for any good stew, offering sweetness once softened.
• 2 carrots, sliced: A touch of bright color and earthy sweetness.
• 2 potatoes, diced: These give the stew a hearty texture while soaking up the broth flavors.
• 3 cups beef broth: The essential liquid, rich and full of umami.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A hint of garlic for aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: Adds a lovely herbaceous note.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every component.
• 2 cups dumpling mix: Store-bought for convenience, or homemade for the adventurous spirit.

Feel free to replace the carrots with parsnips for a different twist, or switch out the beef for ground turkey if you’re feeling lighter!

Step-by-step instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as you go.
2. Once it’s nicely browned, drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
4. While the stew bubbles away, prepare your dumplings according to the package directions or, if you’re using a homemade recipe, whip those up now.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mix into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and let it cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
6. Serve this warm, cozy meal hot, and enjoy every comforting bite!

Best ways to enjoy it

This stew is best served right from the pot, ladled generously into bowls for everyone to enjoy. Consider a rustic hunk of bread on the side, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. A simple green salad adds a fresh crunch, balancing out the hearty richness of the stew. And, if you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top of the dumplings brings an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and reheating tips

Any leftovers can be easily saved for another day — simply let the stew cool before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze the stew (before adding dumplings) for up to three months. Just make sure to label your container! When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot and bubbling again.

Helpful cooking tips

For an even richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef broth and stock. The combination enhances the depth of the stew, giving it an almost restaurant-quality taste. If you want to deepen the color and flavor, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can do wonders. And remember, mushrooms are a fantastic addition; they bring an earthy note that complements the ground beef beautifully.

Creative twists

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to swap in different vegetables like green beans or corn, or perhaps try adding some frozen peas just before serving for a pop of color. For a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. And if you’re exploring dietary alternatives, consider using ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter twist that still soothes the soul.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From start to finish, you should be looking at about 30-40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug!

Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! Stews often taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together. Just remember to store it correctly.

What if I don’t have beef broth?
No problem! Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes — just adjust your seasonings slightly to ensure balanced flavors.