Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy, buttery mashed potatoes and rich, savory beef gravy, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal for the family or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this classic dish perfectly every time.
Tools Needed, Cooking Time, and Servings
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4-5 russet potatoes (peeled and cut into cubes)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the cubed potatoes with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the water completely and return the potatoes to the pot. While they’re still hot, mash them using a potato masher or a hand mixer.
- Add Butter and Milk: Incorporate the butter and milk into the potatoes. Continue mashing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk quantity if you prefer a softer consistency.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside while you prepare the gravy and beef.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Make the Gravy
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and stir well, ensuring the flour coats the meat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate. Top with the ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture makes them ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.
- Don’t Skip the Flour: It’s essential for thickening the gravy. Ensure it’s cooked well to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Control Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
- Add a warm dinner roll or slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The mashed potatoes may lose some texture when frozen, but the beef and gravy freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk to the potatoes and a bit of broth to the gravy if they’ve thickened.
FAQ
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the beef broth you use is also gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the mashed potatoes and beef gravy a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and reheat before serving.
4. What can I do if my gravy is too salty?
If the gravy is too salty, add a splash of water or beef broth to dilute it. Adding a small amount of sugar or unsalted butter can also help balance the flavors.
5. What other sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, a fresh coleslaw, or buttery corn on the cob are great sides to complement this hearty dish.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity and flavor in every bite. Its creamy, buttery potatoes and savory, rich beef gravy make it a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With these tips, tools, and step-by-step instructions, you’re set to create a dish that will become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and let its comforting flavors bring joy to your table!
