Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

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

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty, home-cooked meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is one such dish—a timeless classic that combines savory flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal to impress, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious dish, step by step.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather everything you’ll need:

1 lb. ground beef (80/20 blend works well for flavor and juiciness)
2 lbs. potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are great choices)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred for better control of seasoning)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess)
1/4 cup butter (unsalted)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the gravy)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Step 1: Boil and Mash the Potatoes

The foundation of this dish is the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Here’s how to make them perfectly:

Peel and chop the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly.
Boil the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and mash: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the pot and add the butter and milk. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Onion and Garlic

While the potatoes are cooking, you can start on the savory ground beef and gravy mixture.

Cook the onions and garlic: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

The gravy is what ties this dish together, adding richness and flavor to the ground beef.

Add the flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked ground beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. The flour will act as a thickening agent for the gravy.
Pour in the beef broth: Slowly add the beef broth to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate Worcestershire sauce: Add the Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. This ingredient adds a tangy, savory depth to the gravy.
Simmer and thicken: Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or additional broth to thin it out. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the best part—putting it all together!

Plate the mashed potatoes: Scoop a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate or bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight well in the center for the gravy.
Top with ground beef and gravy: Ladle the ground beef and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes, ensuring each serving gets plenty of both.
Garnish and serve: For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top. Serve immediately while everything is hot.

Tips for Success

Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are naturally buttery and creamy, making them ideal for mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are also a great option, as they have a fluffy texture when mashed.
Don’t rush the gravy: Allowing the gravy to simmer for a few minutes helps the flavors meld and ensures it thickens properly. Be patient—it’s worth it!
Customize the dish: Feel free to add your own twist to this recipe. For example, you can stir in a handful of frozen peas or diced carrots to the ground beef mixture for added color and nutrition. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also give the dish a spicy kick.
Make it ahead: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store the mashed potatoes and ground beef gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why This Dish Works

Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is a quintessential comfort food for several reasons:

Balanced flavors: The savory ground beef, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes create a harmonious blend of flavors that satisfy the palate.
Texture contrast: The smooth, velvety mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the slightly chunky ground beef and gravy, offering a delightful contrast in every bite.
Versatility: This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be dressed up with additional herbs and spices or kept simple for a quick and easy meal.
Family-friendly: Both kids and adults love this dish, making it a reliable option for family dinners or gatherings.

Nutritional Considerations

While this dish is undeniably indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Use lean ground beef: Opt for 90/10 or 93/7 ground beef to reduce the fat content.
Swap out the butter: Substitute half of the butter in the mashed potatoes with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream for a lighter option.
Add vegetables: Incorporate more veggies, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, into the ground beef mixture for added nutrients.

Conclusion

Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. With its simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and irresistible flavors, this dish is a testament to the power of home cooking. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy weeknight or sharing it with loved ones at a special gathering, it’s sure to leave everyone feeling satisfied and content. So, grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and get ready to enjoy this classic comfort food at its finest!