If you are craving a hearty and comforting meal, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender ground beef smothered in a rich, savory gravy poured generously over creamy mashed potatoes. Every bite is pure warmth and satisfaction, making it a timeless classic dinner that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a fulfilling solo meal, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and nostalgic charm all in one skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this dish starts with a handful of simple, essential ingredients that build layers of flavor and creamy comfort. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender ground beef that provides protein and heartiness, to the velvety mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of gravy deliciously.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, offers rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Injects aromatic warmth and boldness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential to thicken the gravy to silky perfection.
- 2 cups beef broth: The savory base that infuses the gravy with meaty umami.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides tangy, complex flavor notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle spice and depth.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For added richness and a glossy finish to the gravy.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh pop of color and brightness.
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed): The base of our creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Gives the mashed potatoes their luxurious, buttery texture.
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (warmed): Ensures smooth, fluffy potatoes that melt in your mouth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the potatoes perfectly.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Once soft, drain off the water and mash them with butter and warm milk or cream. Season generously with salt and pepper, and set aside while you prepare the savory ground beef and gravy. These creamy mashed potatoes will be perfect for soaking up that luscious gravy later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks until it is nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. This step lays the flavorful foundation, ensuring each bite has that satisfying meaty richness.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to bring out that wonderful fragrant aroma that signals deliciousness.
Step 4: Make the Gravy Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat all the meat and veggies. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes, which helps remove the raw flour taste and starts the thickening process for your gravy.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 5 to 7 minutes as it thickens into a luscious gravy. If you want to add a bit more depth, stir in a tablespoon of butter right at the end for extra richness and a velvety finish.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
To serve, spoon generous portions of the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle the hot ground beef and gravy mixture over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like a touch of fresh green color and a little herbal brightness. Now, every bite delivers that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is my go-to garnish here because it adds a lovely contrast to the rich gravy and creamy potatoes. You can also sprinkle a little freshly cracked black pepper or even a dusting of paprika for extra visual appeal and subtle flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a full meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to bring some freshness and crunch. For an extra touch, roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms pair beautifully by complementing the meaty gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making mini skillet portions if you want individual servings that look charming and inviting. You can also turn this into a cozy casserole by layering mashed potatoes and beef gravy in a baking dish, topping with some shredded cheese, and baking until golden and bubbly for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the gravy and mashed potatoes separate if possible to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the beef and gravy mixture on its own for up to 2 months. The mashed potatoes freeze well too but may become slightly grainy upon thawing, so reheat gently and stir well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat this dish gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or broth if the gravy or potatoes seem too thick. This helps restore the creamy texture that makes this comfort food so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a leaner alternative and still works well with the gravy, though you might want to add a bit more seasoning to brighten the flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with dairy-free margarine and your favorite non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The gravy can be made without butter as well.
Can I add vegetables to the gravy?
Definitely, adding peas, mushrooms, or even carrots into the gravy adds wonderful texture and extra nutrients. Just sauté them alongside the onions before adding the garlic.
How do I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Using Yukon Gold potatoes tends to yield creamier results. Also, warm your milk or cream before mixing it in, and mash thoroughly until smooth for that luscious mouthfeel.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Of course! Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy instead of all-purpose flour, and ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free varieties.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is such a timeless, comforting classic that never fails to bring joy to the table. It’s straightforward to make yet rich with flavors that feel like a warm embrace after a long day. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and discover how effortlessly satisfying a homemade comforting meal can be.
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Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic American comfort food recipe features savory ground beef cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish combines tender mashed Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes with a hearty beef and onion gravy seasoned with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic spices. Garnished with parsley, it offers a satisfying and wholesome meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream, warmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Drain them well. Mash the potatoes thoroughly, then mix in the butter, warmed milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside and keep warm while preparing the gravy.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: To the browned beef, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Create the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the meat and onion mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat everything with flour. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously to prevent clumping.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine smoothly. Add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute all the seasonings.
- Simmer the Gravy: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If desired, stir in the butter at the end to add extra richness and a silky texture.
- Serve: Spoon the hot ground beef and gravy mixture generously over the warm mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley if using for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, consider adding peas or mushrooms to the gravy.
- This ground beef and gravy mixture pairs wonderfully with rice or egg noodles as alternative bases instead of mashed potatoes.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier mash or Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture.
