Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is a comforting classic dinner that many enjoy. It combines savory ground beef and rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s simple to make, filling, and perfect for family meals or a casual dinner with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes. Firstly, it’s a hearty dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s also budget-friendly, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. It’s a warm and satisfying meal that brings a taste of home to your table.
How to Make Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well, then mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess fat if needed.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. Melt the butter on the empty side, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute, creating a light roux.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring until smooth and well-combined with the beef. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Scoop mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls. Ladle the hot beef and gravy over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
How to Serve Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
Serve Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes in bowls or on plates. You can sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for extra flavor and color. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the mashed potatoes and beef gravy in separate airtight containers. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Tips to Make Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a richer flavor in your mashed potatoes.
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add more butter or milk.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots to the gravy for added nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; sometimes, a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can add extra flavor.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. You can also use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and gravy in advance. Just reheat when you are ready to serve.
Q2: What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with green beans, corn, or a fresh garden salad.
Q3: Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and gravy together, but it’s best to freeze the mashed potatoes separately. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy cooking and sharing this comforting meal with your loved ones!
Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4 medium Potatoes, peeled and cubed Use Yukon Gold for a richer flavor.
- ¼ cup Butter More can be added for creaminess.
- ½ cup Milk or heavy cream Use more for creamier mashed potatoes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust according to your taste.
For the Beef and Gravy
- 1 lb Ground beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Butter For making the roux.
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Use this to thicken the gravy.
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon Dried thyme (optional) Could be omitted if preferred.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Adjust to your liking.
Instructions
Preparation of Mashed Potatoes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well, then mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
Cooking Beef and Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. Melt the butter on the empty side, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute, creating a light roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring until smooth and well-combined with the beef. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Serving
- Scoop mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls. Ladle the hot beef and gravy over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
