Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or more as needed)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Directions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
- Add the milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Gravy:
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually stir in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates and top with the ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra creamy and cheesy twist.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or green beans to the ground beef and gravy for added nutrition and color.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or basil to change up the flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the ground beef and gravy over cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Food and Drink Pairings
This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Serve it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or buttered rolls for a complete meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine, a cold beer, or even a simple glass of water with lemon complements the rich flavors of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. The cooking time and method remain the same.
What if I don’t have beef broth? You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and make the mashed potatoes just before serving.
How do I make the gravy thicker? If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy and cook until thickened.
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