Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

 Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes – A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something truly satisfying about a hearty, homemade meal, and Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is comfort food at its finest. This dish combines creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with rich, savory ground beef gravy, making it a go-to for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients. Let’s dive into this classic recipe, packed with flavor and nostalgia.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Mashed Potatoes:

4–5 russet potatoes (peeled and cubed): The best choice for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content.

2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture.

1/2 cup milk (adjust for consistency): Makes the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy.

Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors.

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

1 pound ground beef: The star of the dish, providing hearty, meaty flavor.

1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, savory depth to the gravy. (Optional for those who don’t enjoy onions—simply add extra garlic for flavor.)

2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, aromatic note.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly.

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.

2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory, rich base for the gravy.

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor.

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives the gravy a subtle, earthy aroma.

Salt and black pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances the flavors.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil the potatoes: Place the cubed russet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2. Drain and mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot (this helps remove excess moisture). Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer.

3. Add butter and milk: Mix in the butter and gradually add the milk until the potatoes reach your desired creamy texture.

4. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm and set aside.

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2. Make the Ground Beef and Gravy:

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onions soften.

3. Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

4. Make the gravy: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.

5. Taste and adjust: Adjust the seasoning if needed. If the gravy is too thick, stir in a bit more beef broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:

Use freshly mashed potatoes: Avoid using instant potatoes for the best texture and flavor.

Brown the beef well: Letting the beef develop a golden crust adds a deep, rich flavor to the gravy.

Stir continuously: When adding the beef broth to the roux, stir constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.

Adjust consistency: Add more milk to the mashed potatoes or more broth to the gravy to suit your texture preferences.

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Serving Suggestions:

Serve the ground beef and gravy generously over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Pair this dish with:

Steamed green beans or buttered corn for a classic side.

Homemade biscuits or Hawaiian sweet rolls for soaking up the gravy.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance.

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Why This Recipe Is Loved:

Easy and quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Affordable: Made with simple ingredients without breaking the bank.

Comforting: A classic dish that brings back warm memories.

Versatile: Can be adjusted with different herbs or served with rice or noodles instead of mashed potatoes.

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Final Thoughts:

Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a beloved comfort food that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. The creamy mashed potatoes paired with rich, savory gravy make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flav

ors of home-cooked goodness.

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Would you like more comfort food recipes like this? Let me know what you’d love to try next!