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Classic Ground Beef & Gravy with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Comfort Food Dinner

Classic Ground Beef and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Meal!

By Jason Griffith

Some meals are just pure comfort, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This Ground Beef and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes is exactly that – a hearty, satisfying dish that brings together savory ground beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy, served atop a bed of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s a timeless classic that’s easy to make and perfect for any day of the week, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I’m a huge fan of simple, wholesome meals that truly nourish the soul, and this dish embodies that perfectly. What I absolutely adore about this Ground Beef and Gravy is its uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying flavor. The rich, savory gravy clinging to the perfectly cooked ground beef, paired with the light and creamy mashed potatoes, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, brings back fond memories, and always leaves you feeling utterly content. Plus, it’s remarkably straightforward to prepare, making it a go-to for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
  • ½ cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped fresh parsley

Swaps and Notes

  • Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef helps prevent the gravy from being too greasy. You could also use ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and pork.
  • Onion & Garlic: Finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic ensures they blend seamlessly into the gravy.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour is used to thicken the gravy. For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, added gradually to simmering broth).
  • Beef Broth: Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a crucial umami depth to the gravy. Don’t skip it!
  • Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing as they become fluffy and creamy.
  • Milk & Butter (Mashed Potatoes): Adjust the amounts to your desired creaminess. You can use less milk for thicker mashed potatoes, or more for a looser consistency.
  • Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper for both the gravy and the mashed potatoes.
  • Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely bright finish and a pop of color, but it’s optional.

Instructions:

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

2. Brown Ground Beef: Add the 1 lb ground beef to the skillet with the softened onion and garlic. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, until it is completely browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

3. Make the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Simmer the Gravy: Gradually add the 2 cups of beef broth to the skillet, whisking continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth gravy. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Remove from heat once thickened.

5. Cook Potatoes: While the beef and gravy are cooking, place the 2 lbs peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.

6. Mash Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the empty hot pot. Add the ½ cup milk, ¼ cup butter, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Using a potato masher, fork, or electric mixer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of milk and butter for your desired consistency and richness.

7. Serve: To serve, spoon a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto serving plates. Ladle the rich, savory ground beef and gravy mixture generously over the mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.

Enjoy your Ground Beef and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes, a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

Tips for Success

  • Drain Fat: Draining excess fat from the ground beef is key for a non-greasy gravy.
  • Whisk Constantly for Gravy: When adding broth to the flour-coated beef, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth gravy.
  • Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Cook potatoes just until tender; overcooked potatoes can become watery and less flavorful when mashed.
  • Warm Milk/Butter for Mashed Potatoes: Using warm milk and softened/melted butter for mashing potatoes helps create a creamier, smoother texture.
  • Season in Layers: Seasoning the beef, gravy, and potatoes separately ensures a well-balanced flavor throughout the dish.
  • Rest Gravy Briefly: Allowing the gravy to sit for a minute or two after cooking can help it thicken slightly more.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Ground Beef and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes is a complete, satisfying meal, but it pairs wonderfully with simple vegetable sides.

Storage and Leftover Tips

This dish is fantastic for making ahead or enjoying as leftovers.

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover Ground Beef and Gravy and Mashed Potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating (Gravy & Beef): Reheat the beef and gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of extra beef broth or water to thin the gravy as it will thicken upon cooling.
  • Reheating (Mashed Potatoes): Reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave, on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or butter, or in a covered oven-safe dish.
  • Freezing: Both the cooked ground beef and gravy can be frozen in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, though their texture might change slightly upon thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes is a timeless classic that delivers on pure comfort and hearty satisfaction. It’s a simple, straightforward recipe that yields incredibly delicious results, making it perfect for any night you crave a warming, fulfilling meal. Get ready to enjoy a taste of home that’s always a winner!

What are your go-to comfort food recipes for busy weeknights, or do you have a secret ingredient that makes your gravy extra special? Share your ideas and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac

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