Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a hearty and comforting Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes recipe! This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal, featuring savory ground beef in a rich, savory gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s quick, filling, and full of flavor.

Ingredients (serves 4-6)

For the Ground Beef & Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean, but any ground beef will work)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 2 cups beef broth (you can use low-sodium)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth)
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for a bit of umami flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for a little warmth and color)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or any starchy potatoes)
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic (for garlic mashed potatoes)
• Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese (for extra creaminess)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Peel and cube the potatoes into evenly sized chunks (about 1-2 inches).
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a hand mixer.
5. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and continue mashing until smooth and creamy. For extra richness, you can stir in sour cream or cream cheese.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic if desired. Cover the mashed potatoes and set aside while you make the beef and gravy.

2. Make the Ground Beef & Gravy:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
3. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir it in to form a roux. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually add the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the gravy begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and let the gravy simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
6. Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed.

3. Serve:

1. Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. Pour the ground beef and gravy over the mashed potatoes, making sure to cover them nicely.
3. Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: You can make the mashed potatoes and gravy ahead of time. Store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk. The beef and gravy also stores well for up to 3 days.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top of the mashed potatoes if you like a little kick or extra creaminess.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: For extra nutrition, consider adding some frozen peas or carrots to the beef and gravy mix in the last few minutes of cooking.

This Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is ultimate comfort food—savory, creamy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel right at home. 😊

Let me know if you want more variations or a quick shortcut version for busy weeknights!