This Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe combines tender ground beef, a rich and creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite.
Ideal for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a hearty dish, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please. The savory stew pairs wonderfully with the soft dumplings, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
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2 cups half-and-half
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
Dumplings:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
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3/4 cup milk
Directions:
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
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Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
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Stir in beef broth, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, half-and-half, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
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While the stew simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
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Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Gradually add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
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Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering stew.
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Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and have puffed up.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 600 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
The History and Comfort of Ground Beef and Dumplings
Ground Beef and Dumplings is a dish deeply rooted in comfort food traditions. While many think of dumplings as part of Asian cuisine, the type featured in this recipe has its origins in European and American homestyle cooking. For centuries, families across Europe and the American South have relied on variations of meat stews paired with some form of dumpling—whether they be biscuit-like, drop dumplings, or rolled varieties—as affordable, hearty meals that stretch basic ingredients into belly-filling dinners.
This particular dish is reminiscent of classic beef stew, but with the richness amplified by the addition of creamy mushroom and cheddar soups and topped with light, fluffy dumplings. It’s a humble, cozy dish that tastes like home—and better yet, it’s designed to feed a family on a budget without sacrificing comfort or flavor.
Why Ground Beef Works Perfectly in This Dish
While many traditional stews use chunks of beef roast or short ribs, ground beef offers a unique twist that makes this recipe both accessible and practical. Ground beef cooks quickly, absorbs flavor well, and adds a rustic, slightly heartier texture that pairs beautifully with soft dumplings.
Ground beef also ensures that this recipe can come together in under an hour, which makes it a realistic weeknight dinner. There’s no need to wait for a stew to slow-cook all day—this shortcut is both satisfying and efficient. Plus, the ground beef holds its structure well in the creamy broth, so every bite delivers a well-balanced mix of meat, vegetables, and dumpling.
The Role of the Creamy Base
What sets this Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe apart is the savory, creamy broth that ties everything together. Using a blend of condensed cream of mushroom and cheddar cheese soups with half-and-half creates a luxurious base that is both rich and comforting.
This creamy broth does double duty—it infuses the dumplings with extra flavor as they steam on top, and it helps stretch the ground beef and veggies into a full, cohesive meal. The cheddar soup adds a layer of sharpness and depth, while the mushroom soup provides earthiness and umami. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
The Dumplings: Light, Fluffy, and Essential
The dumplings in this dish are made using a simple drop method. They are not overly dense or chewy—instead, they’re light, tender, and steam-cooked directly in the bubbling stew. This method of cooking allows the dumplings to absorb the delicious flavors from the broth while staying moist and fluffy.
Using cold butter and milk in the dough helps create that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The subtle sweetness of the dough, balanced with the savory broth, creates a delightful contrast that elevates the whole dish. These dumplings are more than just a topping—they’re an integral part of the eating experience.
Nutritional Considerations and Variations
This is a hearty meal with a decent calorie count, but it’s also highly customizable. For those looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute the half-and-half with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used instead of beef for a leaner option.
Vegetables are flexible, too—frozen mixed vegetables keep it easy and quick, but fresh produce like diced carrots, celery, or green beans can be added for a more rustic, garden-fresh flavor. Herbs like thyme or parsley can bring even more brightness to the dish.
For those who enjoy a little spice, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth can introduce a gentle heat that plays well with the creamy base. And if you’re catering to a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled and cooked in a large pot or Dutch oven.
A Family Favorite Across Generations
What makes Ground Beef and Dumplings such a beloved recipe is its nostalgic nature. It’s the kind of dish that reminds people of their grandmother’s kitchen or Sunday family dinners. The aroma alone—savory beef, buttery dumplings, and creamy broth—has a way of bringing everyone to the table.
It’s also kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing. Even picky eaters will usually dig in without protest, thanks to the creamy texture and familiar flavors. Served with a simple green salad or crusty bread on the side, it’s a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re making this on a cold winter night or just need something hearty to comfort your soul, this dish delivers every time. It bridges generations, offers simplicity, and fills more than just your stomach—it fills your heart.
Tips for Making It Even Better
There are a few small techniques that can elevate this dish even further. First, always brown the ground beef well. Getting a bit of caramelization adds deeper flavor to the stew. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth the few extra minutes.
Second, use freshly ground black pepper and quality salt. Since the soup bases already contain sodium, you won’t need too much, but a bit of seasoning right at the end brings the whole dish into balance.
Lastly, don’t overcrowd the dumplings when dropping them into the pot. Give them a bit of space so they can puff up without sticking together. Keeping the pot covered during the steaming process ensures they stay moist and airy.
Storage and Reheating
Ground Beef and Dumplings also holds up well for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it thickens once cooled.
The dumplings will remain soft but may become a bit denser after refrigeration. A quick steam or microwave with a damp paper towel can help restore some of their original texture.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Dumplings is the kind of dish that stands the test of time. It’s affordable, easy to make, and deeply comforting. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can create a meal that’s both nourishing and nostalgic. The creamy, cheesy broth paired with the seasoned beef and fluffy dumplings checks every box for a comforting home-cooked dinner.
It’s no wonder this dish has earned a permanent spot in the hearts (and recipe boxes) of so many families. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner fix or someone who simply craves the taste of home, Ground Beef and Dumplings is your answer. It proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly memorable—just honest, heartfelt cooking.