This comforting and hearty dish is the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes topped with flavorful ground beef and savory gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a delicious meal, Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4-5 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk (more if needed for desired consistency)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
1 cup beef broth (or more for a thinner gravy)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Peel and Cube the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into even-sized cubes. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and begin mashing until smooth. Gradually add milk until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside and keep warm.
Prepare the Ground Beef and Gravy
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the beef and set it aside.
Cook the Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion (and garlic, if using) and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to form a roux. Gradually add the beef broth while stirring to ensure the mixture is smooth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring the gravy to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, until the gravy has thickened to your liking. If the gravy gets too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out.
Combine the Beef and Gravy: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet and stir it into the gravy. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the beef to absorb the gravy.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate and top with the beef and gravy mixture.
Garnish: For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
Adjust Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, use more flour when making the roux. For a thinner gravy, add additional beef broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and the ground beef and gravy mixture ahead of time. Simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Flavor Boosters: If you like a little heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef and gravy mixture for extra flavor.
Custom Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the beef and gravy for added texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is filling on its own but can also be paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. If you like a little extra flavor, serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
Conclusion
Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining soft, creamy mashed potatoes with flavorful ground beef in a rich, savory gravy. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. With its simple ingredients and delicious results, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!