Introduction
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. This classic recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory ground beef and rich gravy, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to make. The addition of optional peas and carrots not only adds a pop of color but also sneaks in some extra veggies, making it a well-rounded dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need something quick yet delicious, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
-
Boil the Potatoes:
Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with water, adding a generous pinch of salt to season. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. -
Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer until they are tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes. -
Drain and Mash:
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter to the potatoes, and mash them using a potato masher or a hand mixer until they are smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot to keep the mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the beef and gravy.
Cook the Ground Beef and Prepare the Gravy
-
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. -
Cook the Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté them together until the onions are translucent and softened, about 5 minutes. -
Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat the beef evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. -
Add the Broth and Worcestershire Sauce:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and continue to stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer. -
Thicken the Gravy:
Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken, which should take about 5 minutes. If you’re adding frozen peas and carrots, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat them through. -
Season to Taste:
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve
-
Plate the Dish:
Spoon a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate or into bowls. -
Top with Beef and Gravy:
Ladle the ground beef and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes. -
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Potatoes: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds.
- Mashing the Potatoes: Be careful not to overmix the mashed potatoes as they can become gluey. Mash them just until they are smooth and creamy.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of cream or sour cream to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Thickening the Gravy: If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
- Vegetable Addition: For a more balanced meal, add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef and gravy mixture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare both the mashed potatoes and the beef and gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While the ground beef and gravy freeze well, mashed potatoes can become watery when frozen. If you plan to freeze this meal, consider making fresh mashed potatoes when reheating.
Q: What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
A: If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use low-sodium broth to reduce the sodium content. Adding more vegetables to the gravy is another great way to make this dish healthier.
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: While homemade mashed potatoes are best for this dish, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch. Prepare them according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe.
This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is a simple, yet satisfying meal that can be made with ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you crave something hearty and comforting. By following these tips and steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.