There is something irresistibly cozy and satisfying about the classic Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe. This hearty dish brings together tender, creamy mashed potatoes with a rich, savory ground beef gravy that warms you from the inside out. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave that true taste of homestyle comfort food. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to bring smiles and full bellies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Despite its deeply comforting character, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that amplify both flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fluffy russet potatoes to the aromatic thyme, ensuring every bite is absolutely delicious.
- Russet potatoes (1 1/2 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks): These are perfect for silky, fluffy mashed potatoes with the right amount of starch.
- Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and a luscious creaminess to both the potatoes and the gravy.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup, warmed): Essential for creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, divided): Enhances the natural flavors throughout the dish.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, divided): Adds a gentle hint of heat and depth.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for cooking the beef to a perfect sear and subtle fruity undertone.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty star of the gravy, packed with meaty goodness.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Brings sweetness and aroma to the gravy.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds a punch of savoriness that makes the gravy irresistible.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): The thickening agent that gives the gravy its luscious texture.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Provides richness and a deep beef flavor for the gravy base.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Injects umami and depth to the gravy.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle herbaceous note that complements the beef beautifully.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Freshens up the final dish with a pop of color and mild flavor.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Mash the Potatoes
Start by placing those peeled russet potato chunks in a large pot and covering them with cold salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender—this ensures they mash up perfectly smooth. After draining, mix in 2 tablespoons of butter, warmed whole milk, half the salt, and half the pepper. Mash everything together until it’s creamy and indulgent. Cover the mashed potatoes to keep warm while you make the gravy.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until perfectly browned and cooked through. Browning the meat well is key as it builds flavor and creates that mouthwatering savory base for your gravy.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the beef has browned, stir in the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning. This step layers in flavor that really brings the gravy alive.
Step 4: Create the Gravy Base
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir thoroughly, cooking for about a minute. This cooks out the raw taste of the flour and sets up the thickening stage.
Step 5: Simmer the Gravy
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps, then add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, the remaining salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens beautifully. To finish, stir in the last tablespoon of butter for a rich and glossy texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spoon the hearty ground beef and gravy generously over the warm mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh and colorful garnish. Your comforting, homemade dinner is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brightens the earthy tones of this dish but also adds a touch of elegance. For an extra flavor kick, a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving can amp up the savory notes.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines beautifully alongside simple steamed green beans, crisp sautéed peas, or even a fresh garden salad. These sides provide lovely color contrast and subtle textures, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the ground beef and gravy nestled in a hollowed-out baked potato or spooned over a bed of creamy polenta instead of mashed potatoes. You can also create individual skillets for a cozy, rustic presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, pack any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick reheats.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes nicely. Separate the mashed potatoes and gravy into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth to the mashed potatoes helps restore their creamy texture, while gentle warming preserves the luscious gravy consistency without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly and add flavors like thyme or Worcestershire sauce to keep the gravy rich.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.
Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes a few hours in advance. Keep them warm by covering and placing them in a low oven or reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the gravy?
Adding sautéed mushrooms or a splash of red wine to the gravy can deepen the flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage also complement the savory beef nicely.
How do I keep mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?
Use starchy potatoes like russets and avoid over-mashing. Warm milk and melted butter incorporated gently will help keep them fluffy and smooth without turning gluey.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any comfort-food craving. Its blend of creamy potatoes and rich, savory gravy is home cooking at its finest. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that warms both heart and soul.
Print
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting classic American dish featuring creamy mashed russet potatoes topped with savory ground beef gravy. This hearty main course combines tender potatoes mashed with butter and milk alongside a flavorful ground beef and onion gravy thickened with flour and enriched with Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Perfect for a cozy family dinner and easily adaptable with ground turkey or mushrooms.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
For the Ground Beef Gravy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound 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 dried thyme
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked russet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain completely.
- Mash Potatoes: In a bowl, mash the hot potatoes with 2 tablespoons of butter, warm milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mash until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Keep covered and warm while preparing the gravy.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the beef mixture, stirring continuously for one minute to remove the raw flour taste and start thickening.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Gravy: Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to desired consistency.
- Finish Gravy: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to add richness and glossiness to the gravy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Spoon the hot ground beef and gravy mixture over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter protein alternative.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the beef for extra earthy flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans or peas for a balanced meal.
