Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something so heartwarming about a plate of savory ground beef and rich gravy served over fluffy mashed potatoes. This classic, comforting meal is easy to make yet feels like an indulgent treat every time. If you love recipes that bring warmth, flavor, and memories to the table, this Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Plus, you can have it ready in under an hour—ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ready to dig in? Let’s get into what makes this recipe so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything you need to satisfy your cravings for a comforting, flavorful meal. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Rich and Hearty: The gravy is packed with flavor from Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, making every bite irresistibly savory.
• Perfect for Weeknights: With simple ingredients and quick prep, you can pull this meal together on busy nights without compromising on taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Using ground beef and pantry staples keeps it affordable yet filling.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters are likely to love this! Mashed potatoes and beef gravy are comforting, familiar flavors that go down a treat.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine the warmth of creamy mashed potatoes melding perfectly with juicy ground beef and rich, velvety gravy. Every spoonful is filled with buttery potatoes and deliciously seasoned gravy, all layered with tender bites of beef. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug—full of deep, savory flavors and a wonderfully smooth texture that’s truly satisfying.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4-5 russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup milk (more if needed)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• 1 pound lean 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)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Potato masher or electric mixer for mashing
• Large skillet for cooking the beef and gravy
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and breaking up the meat

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for a leaner option if desired.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary would add a delightful earthy note; just be cautious not to overdo it.
• Creamier Mashed Potatoes: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra creamy texture.
• Vegetables: Toss in some peas, carrots, or mushrooms to add more variety and nutrients to the gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Prepare Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the potato flavor.
2. Cook Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Mash and Season: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the gravy.

2. Prepare the Ground Beef and Gravy

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and drain any excess fat.
3. Add Flour and Thicken: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Create Gravy: Gradually stir in the beef broth, followed by the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

3. Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate, and ladle the ground beef and gravy on top.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some fresh or roasted vegetables. Try it with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp side salad. A slice of warm, crusty bread on the side also works perfectly for mopping up any extra gravy!

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

• Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: When mashing, be gentle to avoid a gluey texture. Use a potato masher or hand mixer on low speed for smooth and fluffy potatoes.
• Get the Gravy Right: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Season Gradually: Season as you go, especially with salt, to balance flavors without overpowering the dish.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the beef and gravy mixture (without the potatoes) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed. Mashed potatoes can be microwaved with a splash of milk to keep them creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The ground beef and gravy can be made a day ahead and reheated on the stovetop. For the best texture, make the mashed potatoes fresh, but they can also be prepared ahead and reheated with a bit of added milk or butter.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, if you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can work. However, fresh mashed potatoes offer a much richer, creamier taste.

What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?

For a creamy texture, add a splash of milk and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g

Give This Comforting Dish a Try!

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this cozy meal of Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! It’s simple, filling, and absolutely delicious—a recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience and a photo on Pinterest if you try it out. Happy cooking!

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