Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

 Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

If you’re craving hearty, home-cooked comfort food that wraps you in warmth with every bite, look no further than this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe. It’s rich, savory, soul-satisfying — and best of all, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to become a family favorite.

Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich, creamy gravy, then ladled generously over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. This dish is the epitome of comfort, bringing nostalgic flavors to the table with minimal effort and maximum reward. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time.

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🛒 Ingredients (with Detailed Roles)

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating that irresistible gravy texture:

1 lb ground beef – The heart of the dish, providing a savory base with rich umami flavor. Use 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of moisture and taste.

1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the beef's flavor as it caramelizes.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Delivers pungency and warmth, rounding out the savory profile of the gravy.

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – The key thickener for the gravy, absorbing the fats and turning the broth and milk into a silky sauce.

1 cup beef broth – Builds the savory backbone of the gravy. Opt for low-sodium if you want more control over salt levels.

1/2 cup milk – Adds creaminess and richness, transforming the gravy into a smooth, luscious sauce.

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – A splash of this umami bomb brings depth and complexity, subtly boosting the beefy flavor.

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing all the rich flavors.

4 cups mashed potatoes – The perfect vehicle for soaking up that luxurious gravy. Use homemade mashed potatoes for the best texture and flavor.

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🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it's browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step infuses the beef with extra flavor and creates a foundation for the gravy.

Step 3: Build the Roux

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour evenly over the beef mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and cook off its raw taste. This forms the base of your gravy roux.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Follow with the milk and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the ground beef and gravy generously over a bowl of warm mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) if desired.

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💡 Why This Recipe is Loved

Quick and easy – From start to finish in under 30 minutes.

Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable pantry staples.

Family-approved – Kid-friendly and comforting for all ages.

Versatile – Easily customizable with add-ins like mushrooms, peas, or carrots.

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🔥 Pro Tips for Perfection

Use warm milk when adding it to the gravy to help it blend smoothly.

Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce — it's a small amount that adds BIG flavor.

For extra flavor, swap regular beef broth with a reduced-sodium beef bone broth.

Want a richer gravy? Add a tablespoon of butter while simmering.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

To complete this cozy meal, serve it with:

Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for a fresh, green contrast

Buttery dinner rolls or homemade biscuits to soak up extra gravy

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness

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🥄 Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is a celebration of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With easy-to-find ingredients and foolproof steps, it’s perfect for busy nights when you still want a homestyle meal that satisfies. One bite and you’ll understand why this dish has earned a spot on so many dinner tables.

Looking for the ultimate comfort food recipe that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying? You just found it. Add this to your meal rotation and watch it become a go-to favorite!

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📌 Save this recipe, share it with a friend, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you loved it — because nothing beats a homemade classic done right.

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