Name: Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 1 tablespoon chopped garlic; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup; 10.5 oz condensed cream of bacon soup; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups half and half; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (12 oz package with 10 biscuits)

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 19 reviews

If you’re searching for an unbeatable cozy dinner, look no further than this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe. Picture bowls brimming with juicy ground beef, colorful veggies, and plump dumplings floating in a luscious, creamy broth. It’s a weeknight wonder that comes together quickly yet tastes like it simmered all afternoon. Whether you’re gathering the family, cooking for friends, or just craving pure comfort, this is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and stories to share.

Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about using simple, honest ingredients that build amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a role—from the richness of ground beef to the fluffy bite of the dumplings and the pop of veggies—creating a dinner that’s as uplifting as it is satisfying.

Olive oil: Adds a subtle depth and helps brown the beef for those irresistible savory notes.
Lean ground beef: This is the heart of the recipe—choose lean for less grease yet plenty of flavor.
Yellow onion: Diced fine, it adds sweetness and a savory backbone to the broth.
Chopped garlic: Just a tablespoon brings aromatic warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
Italian seasoning: The herbs create a classic comfort food scent—think oregano, basil, and thyme dancing together.
Condensed cheddar soup: It makes the base creamy and tangy, speckled with cheesy goodness throughout.
Condensed cream of bacon soup: This gives the sauce even more depth and a soft smoky richness.
Chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth for a savory, flavorful base that ties everything together.
Half and half: Creates that dreamy, rich mouthfeel without being heavy.
Frozen mixed vegetables: Handy, colorful, and packed with nutrients—no chopping needed!
Refrigerated biscuit dough: The magic ingredient for quick, fluffy dumplings without fuss.

How to Make Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up as it browns. Toss in diced onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent while the beef is no longer pink. This is where the deep, comforting flavor starts to build, so take your time and enjoy the sizzle!

Step 2: Garlic and Herbs Time

Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the chopped garlic and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring for about a minute—just until the garlic gets fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. That brief, toasty cooking brings out the best in your spices without burning the delicate garlic.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Broth

Pour in the condensed cheddar soup, condensed cream of bacon soup, chicken broth, and half and half. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. Now you’re looking at a rich, golden soup base that feels just a little bit decadent (and totally irresistible).

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Time for veggies! Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables—no need to thaw them first. They’ll quickly come up to temperature and add cheerful pops of color and subtle sweetness to the pot, making this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe both comforting and balanced.

Step 5: Prepare the Biscuit Dumplings

While the creamy broth and veggies are coming to a boil, open your can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Slice each biscuit into six bite-sized pieces. This is your shortcut to perfectly tender dumplings, and it couldn’t be easier or more fun.

Step 6: Simmer and Steam

When the soup is boiling, gently add all the biscuit pieces to the bubbling broth. Give everything a good stir, then pop a lid on the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the dumplings simmer and steam for 15 minutes. Don’t peek! That steam is making your dumplings rise and soak up all those savory flavors.

Step 7: Final Stir and Serve

After 15 minutes, remove the lid and give the stew another stir. The biscuits should be puffy, the broth thickened, and the whole kitchen will smell like a big food hug. Let it rest for a few minutes, then ladle into bowls and serve up your Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe hot. Every spoonful tastes like home!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Finish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of green and a hint of brightness. For cheese lovers, a handful of shredded cheddar or even a little cracked black pepper on top is glorious! If you want a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but nothing beats a fresh, crisp salad on the side—think leafy greens, cucumber, and a zippy vinaigrette. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for dunking into the creamy broth, and a side of roasted veggies rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the stew into oven-safe ramekins, topping with a little extra biscuit dough, and baking until golden for individual pot pies. Or serve the dish family-style in a big, deep serving bowl for everyone to scoop straight from the pot. For a cozy gathering, ladle into large mugs and serve with spoons for an informal, fireside meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge and it will stay delicious for up to three days—the flavors mingle even more on day two, making this an ideal meal-prep choice for busy weeks.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Store for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge. While the dumplings may soften slightly, the comfort and coziness remain strong.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to revive that creamy texture, and heat gently until warmed through. If you prefer, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use different ground meat instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork all work well. Each brings its own flavor, but keeps the heartiness and comfort you love in this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe.

What if I don’t have condensed cream of bacon soup?

If cream of bacon soup isn’t available, swap in cream of mushroom or cream of chicken. The dish will still turn out luxuriously creamy and delicious with a slightly different taste.

Can I make this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the meat and veggie mixture ahead and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready, reheat gently, add the biscuit dough pieces, and cook according to the recipe so your dumplings are fresh and fluffy.

Are there ways to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat substitute or bulk up on hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and zucchini. Swap in vegetable broth and both soups for veggie-forward alternatives, and you’ll still enjoy all the cozy vibes.

How can I add more heat or spice?

If you love some spice, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. Tweak the level to match your taste—this Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is easy to customize!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Dumplings Recipe is the definition of comfort, warmth, and minimum fuss with maximum flavor. Gather your favorite people, share big bowls, and watch smiles appear with every spoonful. Try it soon—you may just find it becomes your new go-to for cozy nights at home!