Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes: A Comforting Meal for All Ages

There’s something inherently satisfying about a dish that’s simple, hearty, and comforting. Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is one of those classic meals that combines rich, flavorful ground beef and a creamy, buttery bed of mashed potatoes. This dish is a staple in many households due to its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

In this article, we will walk you through how to make this delightful meal, explore its components, and offer helpful tips to elevate your ground beef and gravy to the next level.

Why Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a Classic Comfort Dish

There are a few key elements that make Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes such a beloved comfort food. First, mashed potatoes are the perfect base—creamy, fluffy, and mild, they pair beautifully with the savory richness of the ground beef and gravy. Second, the hearty ground beef, sautéed with onions and garlic, creates a delicious, meaty texture, while the gravy made from beef broth and Worcestershire sauce gives the dish a luscious, satisfying finish.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to prepare something filling and delicious, but it’s also special enough to serve at family gatherings or potlucks. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required for ground beef and gravy and the mashed potatoes:

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4-5 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for mashed potatoes because they break down easily, resulting in a creamy texture.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the potatoes.
• 1/2 cup milk (or more for desired consistency): Milk helps to smooth out the mashed potatoes, giving them a silky, velvety consistency.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning is essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the potatoes.

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• 1 pound ground beef: The star of the dish, providing a savory, protein-packed base for the gravy.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor of the beef and gravy.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides an aromatic, savory note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables, contributing a mild, smooth cooking fat.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the gravy, giving it the perfect consistency.
• 2 cups beef broth: The liquid base for the gravy, giving it a rich and hearty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami kick to the gravy.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: An earthy herb that complements the beef and adds fragrance to the gravy.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef and gravy to perfection.

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to cook. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes.

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the russet potatoes (peeled and cut into cubes) to the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the water completely once the potatoes are soft.

While the potatoes are hot, return them to the pot and use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash them until smooth. Add butter and milk, then beat until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside while you make the gravy and ground beef.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Prepare the Gravy

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Sprinkle flour over the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. The flour will help thicken the gravy.

Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will help develop a deep, savory flavor in the gravy. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly.

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the gravy to simmer for another 1-2 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

To serve, spoon a generous portion of the mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with the savory ground beef and gravy, making sure to drizzle plenty of the rich gravy over the potatoes. This is a meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

While Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a rich and indulgent dish, it also provides a number of important nutrients:

• Protein: The ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Carbohydrates: The mashed potatoes provide a healthy source of carbohydrates, offering energy and fiber.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The onions and garlic add valuable antioxidants and minerals, while the beef broth provides iron and zinc.
• Healthy Fats: The addition of butter and olive oil offers a healthy dose of fats, helping to keep you feeling satisfied after the meal.

Though this dish is rich in calories, it’s a great option for a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.

Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

Here are a few tips to make sure your Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes comes out perfectly every time:

1. Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content, making them fluffy and easy to mash.
2. Brown the Beef Well: Be sure to brown the ground beef properly to develop the best flavor for the gravy.
3. Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more beef broth or water. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer until it thickens to your liking.
4. Add Your Favorite Herbs: Feel free to customize the gravy by adding other herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful, savory beef and gravy, this dish brings comfort and nourishment to the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to enjoy a cozy dinner for one, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.