Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by preparing the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. If you like extra creamy mashed potatoes, add a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside and keep them warm.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 6-8 minutes.

Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Once the beef and onions are cooked, sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. This will help thicken the gravy. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the fat and flavors.

Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to stir as the mixture comes to a simmer. The gravy should start to thicken in about 5-7 minutes. If you like a thinner gravy, add a bit more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

To serve, scoop a generous portion of your creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate. Top with a hearty scoop of the ground beef and gravy mixture. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, try adding vegetables to the gravy. You can stir in some frozen peas, corn, or mushrooms while simmering the gravy for added texture and flavor.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. You can use the same method to prepare the gravy, and the dish will still be delicious!
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture while cooking for an extra kick.
• Add Gravy Seasonings: If you want more flavor in your gravy, consider adding onion powder, garlic powder, or even a dash of soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the mashed potatoes before serving. Let the cheese melt for a gooey, cheesy treat!

Why Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Is a Family Favorite

Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is the kind of dish that brings families together. It’s simple, affordable, and loved by all ages. The combination of savory beef, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes is sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. This dish is a classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, or when you need to feed a crowd without a lot of fuss.

It’s also a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch of beef and gravy and store it in the fridge for several days or freeze it for a future meal. When served with mashed potatoes, you’ve got an easy, comforting meal that tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—a dish that combines hearty, savory flavors with creamy, fluffy potatoes. It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that’s satisfying and full of flavor.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weekend meal, or simply as a way to satisfy your cravings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy it as-is, or add your personal twist to make it your own. Either way, you’re in for a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to bring a smile to your face!