Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. The savory, rich beef gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes makes for the perfect family meal or a quick dinner on a busy night. The combination of tender ground beef, sautéed onions, garlic, and a flavorful beef broth base creates a gravy that perfectly complements the smooth, velvety mashed potatoes. It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to every bite and is loved by both kids and adults alike.

This meal is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cook time, Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re looking for a cozy comfort food dish or something easy yet tasty to serve on a busy day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is a timeless, comforting dish that combines savory flavors with a creamy texture. The richness of the beef gravy is perfectly balanced with the smoothness of the mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. The recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for busy nights or when you’re craving something familiar and filling. The savory gravy is versatile, and you can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Plus, this meal is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Beef broth
• Salt and pepper
• Mashed potatoes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms into the gravy for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
• Gravy with Cream: For a richer gravy, you can replace part of the beef broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking until the onion is softened and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring to combine. The flour will help thicken the gravy.

Step 4: Gradually Add the Beef Broth

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Season with Salt and Pepper

Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Over Mashed Potatoes

Spoon the ground beef gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Stir the Gravy Constantly: When adding the beef broth, be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, you can cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Homemade Mashed Potatoes: For the best flavor and texture, make your mashed potatoes from scratch using butter, milk, and seasonings.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Some people like a bit of extra garlic or a touch of Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.

How to Serve

This dish is best served hot with the beef gravy spooned generously over a bed of mashed potatoes. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up any extra gravy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover beef gravy and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The beef gravy will last for up to 3 days, while the mashed potatoes can be stored for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Both the beef gravy and mashed potatoes can be frozen. For the gravy, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it will last for up to 3 months. Mashed potatoes can be frozen in a similar manner. When reheating, add a splash of milk or beef broth to restore the creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the beef gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For the mashed potatoes, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or butter to make them creamy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Simply reheat the components when ready to serve.

3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

While homemade mashed potatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch for convenience.

4. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If the gravy is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken, or add a little extra flour to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Can I add vegetables to the gravy?

Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.

6. How can I make the gravy richer?

For a richer gravy, replace part of the beef broth with heavy cream or use a combination of broth and cream.

7. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable or chicken broth if you prefer, though beef broth gives the gravy its signature savory flavor.

8. Can I make this dish without flour?

Yes, you can make the gravy gluten-free by substituting the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

9. Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Reheat with a little milk or butter to restore the creamy texture.

10. How do I make the gravy more flavorful?

You can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of thyme, or a little soy sauce to the gravy for additional depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table. With its savory, hearty gravy and smooth, creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a cozy weekend meal. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s simple to prepare but packed with delicious, hearty flavors!

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