Few dishes evoke the comforting warmth of home quite like Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes. This timeless classic pairs creamy mashed potatoes with a rich, savory beef gravy, creating a meal that's hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight dinner or a nostalgic dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- Fast and easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: Adjust seasonings, or swap ingredients to fit your preferences.
- Ultimate comfort food: The creamy potatoes and savory gravy create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4–5 russet potatoes (peeled and cut into cubes): The starchy nature of russets ensures creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor to the potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the potato’s natural flavor.
For the Ground Beef and Gravy
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the dish, offering protein and flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle, aromatic richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, creating a flavorful base.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickener for the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth: The liquid base for the gravy, infusing it with a meaty depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a slight tang for balance.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of earthiness to complement the beef.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Perfect for fine-tuning the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potato cubes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash: Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash using a potato masher or hand mixer.
- Add butter and milk: Mix in the butter and milk while the potatoes are still hot. Adjust the milk quantity for your desired creaminess.
- Season to taste: Stir in salt and black pepper. Cover to keep warm and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Gravy
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring constantly to cook the flour for 1–2 minutes.
- Add liquid and seasonings: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Mash while hot: Mashing potatoes while they’re still hot ensures a smooth texture.
- Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the mashed potatoes can make them gluey. Stop once they’re creamy and fluffy.
- Adjust gravy consistency: If the gravy is too thick, stir in a bit more beef broth until it reaches your desired texture.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the ground beef and gravy generously over the mashed potatoes. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or buttery dinner rolls for a well-rounded meal. For a southern twist, serve alongside sweet corn or a tangy coleslaw.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes recipe is loved for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes perfectly balance the rich, savory beef gravy, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Conclusion
Whether you're whipping this up for a cozy family dinner or seeking the ultimate comfort food, this recipe will never disappoint. With its easy-to-follow steps, pantry-friendly ingredients, and unmatched flavor, it’s destined to become a staple in your home.