Beef Stew with Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and hearty. This classic dish combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, flavorful broth and soft, pillowy dumplings.
It’s a meal that fills the room with an inviting aroma and promises satisfaction in every spoonful. This recipe is straightforward but yields a deeply comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or when you need a touch of homestyle cooking.
The combination of savory beef and vegetables, simmered slowly to perfection, and topped with fluffy dumplings, makes this stew a substantial meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
It’s a traditional recipe that can be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, ensuring it’s both versatile and delightful every time it’s served.
Beef Stew and Dumplings
Ingredients:
- For the Beef Stew:
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 – 2 pounds beef stew meat (or chuck roast cut into cubes)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- For the Dumplings:
- 2 1/4 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2/3 cups milk
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
- Add flour and vegetables: Sprinkle flour over the browned beef and stir to coat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, stirring to combine.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Incorporate salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Prepare dumplings: Mix Bisquick and milk in a bowl until a sticky dough forms. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Cook dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering stew. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, then cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish: Remove the bay leaves. Serve the stew hot with dumplings on top.
Notes:
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add peas, green beans, corn, or cubed potatoes according to your preference.
- Cooking tips: Maintain a gentle simmer while cooking the dumplings to ensure they cook through without falling apart or scorching the stew.
