Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the classic combination of ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is a staple in many households, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures that warm the soul. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to satisfy and impress. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this timeless favorite.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

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Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste. Cover and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

  1. Create the Roux: Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the cleared space, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter. Stir constantly to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
  2. Add Beef Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Combine and Simmer: Mix the roux with the ground beef mixture. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
  2. Top with Beef and Gravy: Ladle the ground beef and gravy over the mashed potatoes.
  3. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

  • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef and fresh potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Consistent Stirring: Stir the roux constantly to prevent burning and ensure a smooth gravy.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process for a perfectly balanced dish.

Variations to Try

  • Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
  • Mushroom Gravy: Include sliced mushrooms in the gravy for added depth of flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for some heat.

Conclusion

Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty, satisfying nature of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This classic meal combines rich, savory ground beef gravy with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Gravy:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup milk (more if needed for desired consistency)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Making the Ground Beef Gravy:

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Create a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the gravy.
  4. Add Liquid: Slowly pour in the beef broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Season and Simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer the gravy for about 10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir in chopped parsley if using.

Making the Mashed Potatoes:

  1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  2. Mash and Mix: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter and mash until smooth. Gradually add milk, mashing until the potatoes reach your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Bringing It All Together:

  1. Serve: Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates and top with generous portions of the ground beef gravy. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

  • Complete the Meal: Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, to add a splash of color and nutrition to your plate.
  • Customize Your Gravy: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the gravy while it simmers, or stir in a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
  • Bread for Dipping: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
  • Freeze for Later: This dish also freezes well. Allow the ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Portion Control: For easy future meals, consider dividing leftovers into individual portions before freezing. This makes reheating a breeze, especially for quick lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a timeless recipe that delivers both flavor and comfort. It’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the hearty goodness and the convenience of a meal that can easily be stored and savored later.

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other types of ground meat such as turkey, chicken, or pork. Each type of meat will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

2. How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

To thicken the gravy, you can let it simmer for a longer period, allowing more liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with water to create a slurry, then slowly add it to the gravy while stirring. To thin the gravy, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes can be made ahead of time. Prepare the ground beef and gravy, then store them separately from the mashed potatoes in airtight containers. Both components can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat the gravy and beef mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a bit of broth if needed, and reheat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little milk or butter.

4. What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots, a fresh garden salad, or a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls. These sides add color, texture, and additional nutrients to your meal.

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