There’s nothing quite as comforting as a plate of creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory ground beef and rich gravy. This classic dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will remind you of home-cooked meals from childhood. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a satisfying meal to warm up a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to deliver. Let’s dive into this delicious comfort food!
Preparation Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4-5 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- In a large pot, cover the cubed potatoes with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to medium heat and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the water completely and return the potatoes to the pot.
- While still hot, mash the potatoes using a masher or fork. Mix in butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Ground Beef and Gravy
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Step 3: Serve
- Scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate.
- Ladle the beef and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
This Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes recipe is a timeless dish that delivers both flavor and comfort. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the smiles as your loved ones dig into this hearty, home-style favorite!