Why Make This Recipe
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. This dish is hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. The rich gravy complements the creamy mashed potatoes perfectly, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. It’s also easy to prepare, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk (warm)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring to a boil.
- Cook until tender, which takes about 15–18 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and warm milk. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until there’s no pink left. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir until it’s fully coated. Cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Serve
- Spoon the warm mashed potatoes onto plates and top generously with the beef and gravy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Serve this dish hot for the best experience. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a garden salad for a complete meal. It’s great for a cozy family dinner or as comfort food on chilly nights.
How to Store Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beef and gravy will keep for about 3–4 days. For the mashed potatoes, they can also be stored in a separate container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again.
Tips to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- For extra flavor in the mashed potatoes, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese.
- Use a mix of different ground meats, like turkey or pork, for a unique twist.
- You can add diced vegetables like carrots or peas to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
Variation
You can make a healthier version by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a low-carb option, substitute mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used for a quicker option, but fresh potatoes will give the best taste.
2. How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you want a thicker gravy, simply cook it a little longer while stirring constantly, or add a bit more flour to thicken it to your liking.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and gravy, but mashed potatoes may become watery upon thawing. It’s best to freeze them separately.
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish featuring hearty ground beef in rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk, warm
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring to a boil.
- Cook until tender, which takes about 15–18 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and warm milk. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Cook the Beef and Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until there’s no pink left. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir until it’s fully coated. Cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve
- Spoon the warm mashed potatoes onto plates and top generously with the beef and gravy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve this dish hot for the best experience. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a garden salad. For extra flavor in the mashed potatoes, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese. You can make a healthier version by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.