If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender ground beef simmered in a rich, savory gravy perfectly seasoned to elevate the simple, creamy mashed potatoes underneath. Whether you’re entertaining friends or looking for a cozy family dinner, this dish strikes the perfect balance between homestyle comfort and delicious simplicity, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the soul-soothing flavors of this dish. Each item plays a vital role, from adding depth to the gravy to creating that luscious, smooth texture in the mashed potatoes.
- 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of the gravy, offering rich flavor and hearty texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds creaminess and helps soften the onions and garlic while enriching the gravy.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings subtle sweetness and a lovely aroma to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a punch of warmth and depth to the gravy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The secret to thickening the gravy into a luscious sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates the base for the gravy, infusing it with savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami complexity that elevates the beef gravy perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick to balance the savory elements.
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared): Creamy, fluffy, and ready to soak up all that delicious beef gravy.
How to Make Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks so the beef is evenly crumbled. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the gravy from getting greasy and heavy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the butter to the skillet along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma that’s the perfect base for the gravy.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onions, and garlic. Stir and cook the mixture for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste and start forming a roux. This step is essential because it gives your gravy that silky thickness everyone loves.
Step 4: Whisk in Beef Broth
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This method ensures a smooth, velvety gravy that clings perfectly to the mashed potatoes.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Allow the gravy to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency. The flavors meld together beautifully during this time.
Step 6: Serve Over Mashed Potatoes
Finally, ladle the warm, savory ground beef gravy generously over your prepared mashed potatoes. This finishing touch turns a simple meal into a comforting classic that feels like home on a plate.
How to Serve Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top to add a burst of color and a subtle fresh note that brightens up the rich gravy. A little cracked black pepper or a dab of sour cream can also elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
While the Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a filling meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans offers a refreshing contrast. Roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms can also bring additional texture and earthiness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef gravy over loaded mashed potato bowls topped with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chives. You can also spread the mashed potatoes in a baking dish, pour the gravy over, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly for an irresistible casserole-style variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes into airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Stored properly, both should stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the gravy and mashed potatoes separately in freezer-safe containers. The gravy freezes exceptionally well and can be kept for up to 3 months. Mashed potatoes may change texture slightly but freezing is still a convenient option for meal prep.
Reheating
Gently reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For mashed potatoes, microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or butter to bring back their creaminess. Combining the two right before serving always yields the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe, though the gravy might be a bit lighter in flavor. Consider enhancing it with a bit more Worcestershire sauce or beef broth for added richness.
Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?
While not mandatory, Worcestershire sauce adds a wonderful depth and umami complexity to the gravy. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be a decent substitute.
Can I make mashed potatoes from scratch for this recipe?
Definitely! Freshly made mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and perhaps a touch of garlic will pair perfectly with the ground beef gravy. Using fresh potatoes gives you full control over flavor and texture.
How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy ends up thinner than you like, whisk together a little extra flour or cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the simmering gravy. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic meal prep option. Prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and simply reheat when ready to eat. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a comforting meal even on your busiest days.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that brings warm smiles and satisfied sighs around the table. Its simplicity combined with rich, comforting flavors proves that the best meals often don’t need to be complicated. So grab your skillet and get ready for a cozy dinner that feels just like home.
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Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes recipe is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a quick family meal. The rich, savory gravy made from browned ground beef and aromatic onions is thickened to perfection and served over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic, satisfying combination.
Ingredients
Beef Gravy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the gravy from being too oily.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions and garlic soften and become fragrant, enhancing the flavor of the gravy.
- Make the Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for about 1 minute. This forms a roux, a thickening paste that will help give the gravy a smooth, velvety texture.
- Add Beef Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth gravy base.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your preferred consistency, developing deep flavor.
- Serve: Spoon the warm beef gravy generously over prepared mashed potatoes and serve immediately for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth if possible.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water to thin it out.
- Mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time or purchased pre-made for convenience.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.
- Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
