Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic combo blends rich, savory ground beef gravy with creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers big flavors with simple ingredients you can count on.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe plays a vital role in crafting that perfect balance of taste and texture. From the savory ground beef that forms the hearty base, to the butter and onions that add depth and sweetness, each component works together beautifully to create a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty foundation that develops flavor as it browns.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds creaminess and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the gravy with aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy into a luscious, velvety sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth: The liquid base that makes the gravy flavorful and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, savory boost that enhances the beefiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the gravy a mild, warming spice.
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared): Creamy, fluffy, and ready to soak up all the delicious gravy.
How to Make Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly and develop that deep, savory flavor. Once browned, drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy gravy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic in Butter
Next, add butter to the skillet along with the chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base that makes the gravy taste rich and inviting.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Stir in the all-purpose flour to the skillet and cook it for about a minute. This forms a roux, which is essential for thickening the gravy and giving it that perfect silky texture that clings beautifully to the mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Whisk in Beef Broth
Slowly pour in your beef broth while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps and ensures the gravy turns out smooth and luscious. Watch as the mixture starts to thicken and coat the back of your spoon.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, stirring well. Let the gravy simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reach a rich, thick consistency.
Step 6: Serve Over Mashed Potatoes
Finally, pour your hearty beef gravy warm over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes soak up the savory gravy in the most delicious way, making each bite utterly comforting and satisfying.
How to Serve Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish. For an extra touch, a little shredded sharp cheddar or a drizzle of sour cream can take the experience up a notch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also a great way to balance out the richness of the gravy and potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this classic meal in individual bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation or layer in a casserole dish and bake with a cheesy mashed potato topping for a delicious twist. You can also turn the gravy and potatoes into a shepherd’s pie by adding mixed veggies and baking until golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for easy reheated meals during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the gravy on its own in a sealed container for up to 2 months. The mashed potatoes freeze best with some added cream or butter mixed in to retain their creamy texture. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gravy slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For mashed potatoes, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to regain their original fluffiness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit lighter, so you may want to add a little extra Worcestershire sauce or seasoning to boost the taste.
What type of mashed potatoes work best?
Classic creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and milk are ideal. You can use homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes—just make sure they’re fluffy and not too dense so they soak up the gravy perfectly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The standard recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Can I prepare the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy a day ahead and gently reheat it when ready. This not only saves time but can actually deepen the flavors as it sits overnight.
How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, whisk in a bit more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a truly classic comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite meal to return to time and time again. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!
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Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes recipe provides a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The rich, savory beef gravy is thickened with a buttery roux and flavored with onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, then served over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Beef Gravy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove any excess grease to ensure the gravy is not oily.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant, which helps build flavor.
- Make the Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. This step is crucial as it thickens the gravy and adds a nutty flavor.
- Add Beef Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and create a smooth gravy base.
- Season and Simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the warm beef gravy over prepared mashed potatoes and enjoy this classic comfort meal immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- For a richer gravy, use homemade beef broth if available.
- To make mashed potatoes from scratch, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on the saltiness of your broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American