Introduction
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a hearty meal to enjoy on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. The combination of savory ground beef and rich gravy poured over creamy mashed potatoes creates a delightful flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is a standout:
First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Secondly, this dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. You can add additional vegetables such as peas or carrots to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition. You can also play around with different seasonings to create your own unique twist on the classic recipe.
Lastly, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or food enthusiasts, everyone loves a good serving of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. It’s a timeless dish that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Note: You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir well to combine.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the gravy for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens.
- While the gravy is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes according to your preferred recipe.
- To serve, spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto a plate and top with the ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes!
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes turns out perfectly:
1. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option and to avoid excessive grease in the dish.
2. Be sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly before adding the onion and garlic to enhance the flavors.
3. Stir the flour into the beef and onion mixture well to avoid lumps in the gravy.
4. Slowly pour in the liquids while stirring continuously to prevent clumps from forming.
5. Season the gravy with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. Simmer the gravy on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and thicken.
7. When preparing the mashed potatoes, consider adding butter and cream for extra richness and creaminess.
8. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor of your dish.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
1. Ground Turkey and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
2. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with vegetarian ground meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless version of the dish.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour to make the gravy gluten-free.
4. Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk, to make the dish dairy-free.
5. Flavorful Additions: Add additional vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the ground beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a satisfying and complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with these serving suggestions:
1. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to add color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Pair with a fresh garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
3. Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a well-rounded dining experience.
4. For a cozy and comforting meal, serve with a side of warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: While homemade mashed potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time. Just follow the instructions on the packaging to prepare them.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except for the mashed potatoes) and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Serve with freshly prepared mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a timeless and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its simple yet delicious flavors, it’s no wonder that this recipe has stood the test of time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of savory ground beef and rich gravy over creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Do you have any personal stories or tips about making Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes? Share them in the comments below!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that combines savory ground beef and rich gravy poured over creamy mashed potatoes, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir well to combine.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the gravy for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens.
- While the gravy is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes according to your preferred recipe.
- To serve, spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto a plate and top with the ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes!
