Quick Skillet Stew And Dumplings
A hearty and flavorful skillet stew with tender ground beef, hearty vegetables, and savory tomato sauce, topped with fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines comforting flavors with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for family meals or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet; pour off excess fat.
- Add the tomato sauce, thawed mixed vegetables, water, salt, thyme, and pepper to the skillet.
- Combine well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Prepare the dumplings according to your preferred recipe or use pre-made ones.
- Drop the dumplings into the boiling stew and cook until puffed and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, you can use pre-made dumplings or frozen ones. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce to the stew. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer, use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for a more vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Beef And Noodles for a comforting dinner spread. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Skillet Stew And Dumplings contains roughly 455 calories, with 9g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2423mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
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 make this stew in advance?
Yes, this stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just prepare the dumplings fresh when you're ready to serve to ensure they are fluffy and light.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. Adjust the seasonings slightly as other meats may have different flavor profiles.
Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew without the dumplings. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Prepare fresh dumplings when serving.
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).