Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
There’s something supremely comforting about a steaming plate of Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes. This recipe wraps you in a warm embrace of rich, savory flavors that evoke nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals, especially during chilly evenings. The luscious, savory gravy cascading over fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes creates an indulgent, crave-worthy experience that lingers long after that last bite. It’s a dish that’s both fast to prepare yet feels like a luxurious reward at the end of a long day. Perfect for families, this meal is not just kid-friendly; it’s a delightful feast for taste buds of all ages, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Are You Ready for Comfort Food Bliss?
Can you remember the last time you sought solace in a steaming bowl of mashed potatoes topped with rich, savory beef gravy? Isn’t it incredible how a single dish can conjure fond memories of laughter around the dinner table, or perhaps a quiet night in cozy slippers? Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes represents that simple joy of comfort food, where every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside. As you envision the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, are you excited to whip up this irresistible favorite for yourself or your loved ones?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes checks all the boxes on the comfort food checklist. Crafted with minimal ingredients and quick preparation steps, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays. More than just a meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly transports you back to those cherished, stress-free family dinners. Not only does it deliver unrivaled satisfaction, but it’s also a healthy choice that can be made with lean beef and fresh ingredients.
Quick Prep: A mere 30 minutes of your time transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal.
Family-Friendly: Kids adore the combination of fluffy mashed potatoes and savory gravy, making it a winner at the dinner table.
Budget-Conscious: With easily available and affordable ingredients, this recipe doesn’t break the bank.
Versatile: Dress it up with veggies or serve it alongside a fresh salad to enhance flavors and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter, for cooking)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or more to reach desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Imagine the juicy ground beef melding perfectly with the richly flavored gravy, while the mashed potatoes provide a dreamy, creamy base. You’ll be overwhelmed with nostalgia and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will create an atmosphere of home.
Timing
When it comes to the balance between fast and indulgent cooking, this recipe shines brightly. In just 30-40 minutes, you can have a hearty, soul-warming meal prepared and ready to serve. The straightforward steps allow for effortless elegance, ensuring that even the busiest of schedules won’t sacrifice the joy of sharing a delicious dinner with loved ones.
With that said, Crafting this dish slow and deliberately can yield deeper flavors. However, who can resist the allure of fast, scrumptious gratification when you can have both?
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. After draining, return them to the pot to keep warm.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Once the potatoes are drained, add in butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash vigorously until you achieve that smooth, creamy texture that dreams are made of. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired consistency while maintaining warmth.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet heated over medium, add the ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft, typically around 6-8 minutes. If necessary, drain off any excess fat. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to enhance that fragrant aroma.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the seasoned beef mixture, stirring it in to coat evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Now, it’s time to plate! Generously spoon your velvety mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls, and ladle the comforting beef and gravy over the top. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy this hearty meal while it’s hot, perhaps with a side of veggies or salad for balance.
Nutritional Information
This comforting dish packs a satisfying punch while providing essential nutrients. A typical serving holds roughly 450-550 calories, which makes it an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday meal. Savoring the rich flavors could very well leave you content for hours, ensuring you feel delighted rather than overstuffed.
Healthier Alternatives
While traditional Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is undoubtedly comforting, you can make subtle changes for healthier options, allowing nourishment without sacrificing flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, opt for lean ground turkey or chicken in lieu of beef.
- To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter and milk with olive oil or plant-based alternatives, like almond or oat milk.
- You can also load in more veggies—consider incorporating carrots, peas, or spinach into the gravy for added nutrition without compromising the integrity of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s served on a cozy weeknight or during a family gathering. For an unforgettable twist, consider pairing this feast with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert after dinner, creating a classic comfort food meal.
It can also be brought to potlucks or holiday celebrations, ensuring a filling and delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.
Common Mistakes
While this dish is simple to prepare, a few common pitfalls can detract from its deliciousness.
Overcooking the potatoes: Keep an eye on the cooking time when boiling the potatoes; overbaking can lead to a gluey texture rather than a creamy mash.
Texture issues: Failing to drain the beef mixture properly can make the dish greasy—remember to drain but not dry it out!
Messy gravy: Stirring too quickly when adding the broth may cause lumps; take your time to ensure a smooth gravy.
Storing Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, rejoice! Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes can be stored for future enjoyment.
Freezing Portions: Divide leftovers into airtight containers for convenient meals later. Just be sure to keep the mashed potatoes separate to avoid mushiness.
Reheating Instructions: For optimal texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes to restore creaminess.
Temptation to Bake it ASAP
So, are your taste buds tingling yet? Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is not just a meal—it’s a hearty embrace that promises warmth, satisfaction, and a delightful culinary experience. The glorious combination of ingredients can transform any ordinary day into a celebration of flavors.
If you’ve not yet tried making this dish at home, I urge you to grab your apron and make it ASAP. You’ll find every encouraging sigh of delight around your dinner table is worth the preparation!
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beef and gravy or mashed potatoes in advance and reheat before serving.
2. Is it possible to use other kinds of potatoes?
Certainly! While Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best, you can experiment with red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a twist.
3. What can I serve on the side?
Pair this dish with green beans, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
4. How long does the gravy last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
5. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and onion first, then combine all ingredients into a slow cooker for several hours on low for a flavorful stew-like consistency.
Indulge in the rich flavors and delightful textures of Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes—it’s a comforting classic that never goes out of style!
Print
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting dish of ground beef and rich, savory gravy served over fluffy mashed potatoes, perfect for families and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter, for cooking)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or more to reach desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain and keep warm.
- Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the drained potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stir, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Serve the mashed potatoes topped with the beef and gravy, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For lower-fat options, use lean ground turkey or chicken. Add veggies to the gravy for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
