The comforting aroma of savory beef simmering in rich gravy brings back memories of family dinners where laughter echoed, and everyone gathered around the table. I was reminded of just how satisfying a bowl of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes can be after a long day; it’s a dish that wraps you in warmth like a cozy blanket. The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes form the perfect foundation for the delicious, hearty gravy.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe transforms everyday staples into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. It’s the kind of dish that impresses guests without requiring culinary expertise, making it perfect for weeknight cooking or those special occasions when you want to treat yourself. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that’s certain to reignite your passion for homemade food!
Why is Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes a must-try?
Comforting Nostalgia: This dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Simple Yet Flavorful: Using just a few everyday ingredients, you create an incredibly rich and savory meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight meals, you can whip this up in no time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving guests or enjoying a quiet night at home, it consistently earns rave reviews.
Versatile Base: Pair with different seasonings or vegetables to customize it to your taste. It’s comfort food that adapts to your culinary creativity!
Ground Beef and Gravy Ingredients
• To create the perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, gather these simple ingredients.
For the Gravy
- Ground beef – a versatile protein that forms the hearty base for your gravy.
- ½ small onion, finely diced – adds sweetness and a depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – infuses your dish with aromatic goodness.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour – helps to thicken the gravy, giving it a luscious texture.
- 2 cups beef broth – a rich liquid that enhances the meaty flavor of the gravy.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – introduces a delightful umami note for extra depth.
- ½ tsp onion powder – intensifies the onion flavor and adds warmth to the dish.
- Salt & pepper to taste – essential to elevate all the flavors in your gravy.
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for richness) – adds a luxurious touch to the gravy.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed – creamy potatoes ideal for mashing, providing the perfect base.
- ½ cup milk (warmed) – makes for silky smooth mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth.
- ¼ cup butter – creates an indulgent richness that pairs beautifully with the gravy.
- Salt to taste – season to ensure your mashed potatoes are flavorful and seasoned well.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
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Boil the Potatoes: Begin by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil them for 12–15 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the water and prepare to mash these creamy gems!
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Mash Potatoes: In a large bowl, mash the drained potatoes with ¼ cup butter and ½ cup warmed milk. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding salt to taste before setting them aside.
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes, releasing those delicious savory aromas.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add in the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté everything together for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Let it cook for 1 minute. Then, slowly whisk in 2 cups of beef broth, followed by 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer: Allow the gravy to simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter for added richness!
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Serve: On a plate or in a bowl, spoon a generous portion of your creamy mashed potatoes. Ladle the savory ground beef gravy over the top, and if you desire, finish with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or fresh parsley for a touch of color!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?
Embrace the warmth of home cooking and elevate your comforting feast with delightful pairings that complement every bite.
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Steamed Green Beans: These vibrant vegetables add a crisp texture and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the gravy.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and salt, their earthy notes and crispy edges provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery slices offer a satisfying crunch and a chance to soak up any extra gravy, making every bite irresistible.
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Simple Side Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness, cutting through the dish’s richness while bringing vibrant colors to your plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy-sweet condiment introduces a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory gravies and mashed potatoes.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Chardonnay can enhance the meal, adding a refreshing note that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Ground Beef and Gravy Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! These variations will enhance flavor and cater to different dietary needs.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes for unsweetened almond milk and vegan butter for a lighter option.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the gravy for those who enjoy an extra punch of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate the added warmth!
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Wild Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy twist that adds depth to your gravy. Their umami flavor pairs beautifully with the beef.
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Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for an aromatic lift. Herbs can infuse the sauce with warmth and freshness that enhances every bite.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some finely chopped carrots and celery with the onions to sneak in extra veggies. This adds sweetness and a pop of color to your dish—it’s a delicious way to sneak in nutrition!
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the gravy for an ultra-rich and velvety texture. This luxurious touch makes the dish even more comforting.
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Extra Savory: Boost the flavor by using a combination of beef and pork for the meat base. This duet will create a richer, more complex gravy that’s hard to resist.
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top your mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions for a loaded version that’s perfect for special occasions or a hearty weeknight treat.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Gravy
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Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier gravy. This avoids excess grease that could make your dish too oily.
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Onion Flavor: Cooking the onions until they’re translucent is essential; it enhances their sweetness and helps avoid a harsh flavor in the gravy.
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Gradual Thickening: When adding flour, ensure to coat the beef evenly and allow it to cook for a minute to prevent any raw flour taste in your ground beef and gravy.
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Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your gravy while it simmers. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure a balanced flavor.
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Perfect Mashed Potatoes: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use warmed milk and room-temperature butter, which blends easier without clumps.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without the hassle! You can prepare the gravy up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic, then follow the steps to thicken the gravy before refrigerating it. For the mashed potatoes, make them ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours; reheat gently adding a splash of milk to regain that creamy texture. When ready to serve, simply warm everything on the stove or in the microwave, spoon the gravy over fresh mashed potatoes, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; make sure to let them cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ground beef gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. It’s best to leave the mashed potatoes out of the freezer to maintain their texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the gravy in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth for creaminess. Serve over freshly made mashed potatoes for a delightful meal!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for a leaner variety (around 80/20) for a healthier option. This ensures you avoid excess grease that could weigh down your gravy. I often recommend checking for a bright red color with minimal dark spots—this indicates freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always let the dish cool off before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze the gravy?
Very! To freeze your ground beef gravy, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just a tip: I recommend freezing the gravy separately from the mashed potatoes to maintain their textures!
How do I reheat frozen gravy?
When you’re ready to dig in, thaw your frozen gravy in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour the gravy into a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring back that silky consistency. It’s absolutely worth it!
What if my gravy is too thin?
If you find your gravy is too thin, don’t worry; this can happen! Simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes to let more liquid evaporate, or mix 1 tablespoon of flour with equal parts water to create a slurry and stir it in gradually until thickened. I often find this quick fix very helpful!
Is this dish safe for my pets?
It’s advised to avoid giving this dish to your pets. The onions and garlic in the recipe can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking to treat your furry friends, consider plain, unseasoned mashed potatoes or cooked ground beef without any added ingredients instead!
Delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 12–15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and prepare to mash.
- In a large bowl, mash the drained potatoes with butter and warmed milk until smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until onion is translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over beef mixture, stir to coat, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the gravy to simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in butter if desired.
- Serve creamy mashed potatoes on a plate, ladle the savory gravy over the top. Garnish with cracked black pepper or fresh parsley if desired.