Introduction
Few dishes scream comfort food quite like Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. 🍽️
It’s warm, hearty, and rich — perfectly seasoned beef simmered in a savory brown gravy, poured over buttery mashed potatoes. This easy weeknight meal is pure nostalgia on a plate — simple, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes.
According to home cooking trends, “meat and gravy” dishes have surged in popularity by over 70% thanks to their affordability and comfort appeal. This version uses basic ingredients to create a cozy, restaurant-style meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients List
For the Ground Beef & Gravy
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or thyme for added flavor
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for richness)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Tip: Yukon Gold potatoes make extra creamy mash, while Russets give a fluffier texture.
Timing ⏰
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
➡️ The perfect 30-minute comfort meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Peel and dice potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 12–15 minutes, until fork-tender.
Drain well, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. Keep warm while preparing the beef and gravy.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion together for 6–8 minutes, breaking the meat apart until browned.
Drain excess grease if needed, then add minced garlic and cook 1 minute longer.
Flavor Tip: Let the beef brown undisturbed for 2–3 minutes before stirring — this builds rich flavor and caramelization.
Step 3: Make the Gravy Base
Push beef to one side of the skillet. Add butter to the empty side and melt it.
Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned — this forms the roux (thickening base).
Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: The gravy thickens as it simmers — adjust with a splash of broth if it becomes too thick.
Step 4: Simmer Together
Mix the beef back into the gravy and simmer on low for 5 minutes, until rich and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Scoop creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl. Spoon the hot beef and gravy generously over the top.
Garnish with parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Optional Add-Ons: Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or corn for a hearty twist!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Nutrition Insight: This meal offers balanced comfort — protein from beef, slow carbs from potatoes, and just the right amount of healthy fat.
Healthier Alternatives 🥗
- Lean Option: Use 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Low-Carb: Serve the gravy over mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil and plant-based milk for the mash.
- Low-Sodium: Replace Worcestershire with coconut aminos and use unsalted broth.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Classic combo: With green beans or buttered corn on the side.
- Southern-style: Add a dollop of buttermilk biscuits or cornbread.
- Cozy bowl: Serve in deep bowls for a rustic, hearty feel.
Hosting Tip: Keep warm in a slow cooker for gatherings — it stays rich and flavorful for hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Over-mashing potatoes: Makes them gluey — mash gently for fluffiness.
- Skipping the roux: Without flour, the gravy won’t thicken properly.
- Not browning the meat: Adds depth and prevents bland flavor.
- Using too much liquid: Add broth gradually for the perfect consistency.
Storage & Reheating 🧊
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (store potatoes and gravy separately).
- Reheat: In a saucepan with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
Rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying — Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal. 🥔🍖
It’s easy, affordable, and absolutely heartwarming — the kind of dinner that feels like a hug after a long day.
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