Beef, Beans And Dumplings
Beef, Beans and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef and sausage with hearty pinto beans and a rich spaghetti sauce. Topped with fluffy refrigerator biscuits and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a family meal or a cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a casserole dish, crumble beef and sausage; add onion and garlic.
- Cook, covered, on High for 4 to 6 minutes in the microwave. Drain fat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce, undrained pinto beans, water, and pepper. Cook, covered, on High for 7 to 9 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring once.
- Arrange biscuits around the outer edges, leaving the center open.
- Sprinkle the center with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Cook, uncovered, on High for 2 to 3 minutes or until biscuits are done, turning at 1 1/2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you don't have pinto beans, kidney beans can work as a substitute. To save time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef. Make sure to drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. For a variation, try using a different type of cheese, like cheddar, instead of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the beef and dumplings. A side of garlic bread can also complement the flavors nicely. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup. This meal is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the dish in intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. You can also transfer it to an oven-safe dish and reheat at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef, Beans And Dumplings contains roughly 138 calories, with 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen biscuits instead of refrigerator biscuits?
Yes, you can use frozen biscuits, but be sure to thaw them before arranging them in the dish. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they are fully cooked and golden brown.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef and sausage with plant-based meat alternatives or increase the amount of beans used. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the flavor and texture.
What can I do if I don't have spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce, you can use canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning as a substitute. Adding some herbs like basil and oregano can help replicate the flavor profile of spaghetti sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).