Name: Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

This comforting dish combines the richness of ground beef and savory gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect cozy meal that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. Whether I’m looking for something hearty on a chilly night or craving a classic family favorite, this meal never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings together flavors that I can rely on to comfort and fill me up. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned, and the gravy adds that smooth, velvety touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a well-rounded dish that I can enjoy at any time of year. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare – making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or even a weekend feast!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by preparing the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
While the potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef mixture, stirring to combine. This will help thicken the gravy. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
While the gravy is simmering, drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on a plate and top with the ground beef and gravy mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect meal for a family dinner or when I’m craving something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for some heat.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy mashed potato base.
Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the beef mixture for an earthy flavor that complements the savory gravy.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

FAQs

How can I make the gravy thicker?

If I prefer a thicker gravy, I can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry and stir it into the gravy as it simmers. This will help thicken it up in just a few minutes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I can easily swap ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe. It will create a lighter version of the dish, but it will still be just as delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! I can prepare the mashed potatoes and gravy separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When I’m ready to serve, I just need to reheat both and combine them.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, I can freeze the ground beef and gravy mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. The mashed potatoes can also be frozen, though they may need a little extra stirring when reheated to restore their creamy texture.

What sides would pair well with this dish?

I love serving this with a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or a simple salad to balance the richness of the beef and mashed potatoes. A nice crusty bread on the side is also a great addition!

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is one of those meals that never goes out of style. It’s satisfying, full of flavor, and easy to make. Whether I’m feeding my family or just craving something hearty for myself, this dish always hits the spot. With its variations and simple preparation, it’s a recipe I can enjoy time and time again.