When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals, few things compare to Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This dish combines tender, savory ground beef in a rich, flavorful gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the kind of comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold night, a busy weeknight, or whenever you need a little extra warmth in your day. Best of all, it’s easy to make with simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- Classic Comfort Food: With rich gravy, tender beef, and fluffy mashed potatoes, this dish is the definition of comfort food.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to make any night of the week.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without too much effort.
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt, then bring the water to a boil over high heat. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside to keep warm.
2. Cook the Ground Beef and Gravy
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat everything in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually stir in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your liking.
3. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of the mashed potatoes onto each plate, then top with the ground beef and gravy.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Gravy
- Season to Taste: Always taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your taste.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great option for a creamier texture.
- Thicken the Gravy: If your gravy is too thin, you can mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the gravy to thicken.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms or frozen peas to the gravy for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Add 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes and beef gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the ground beef and gravy portion of the dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving over freshly made mashed potatoes.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables (such as green beans, peas, or carrots) or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender ground beef with rich, flavorful gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s quick, easy, and always hits the spot, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Give this comforting recipe a try, and enjoy the warmth and heartiness it brings to your table.
