Today, we’re diving into a comforting classic that’s sure to warm your soul and fill your belly: Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This dish is the epitome of homey, hearty comfort food – rich, savory, and absolutely satisfying.

I still remember the first time I had this meal at a family gathering. The creamy mashed potatoes were smothered with a hearty beef gravy, and each bite was pure comfort. My family loved it so much that it quickly became a regular on our dinner table. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together and makes even the simplest meal feel special.

What makes this dish stand out is the combination of creamy mashed potatoes with a savory beef gravy that’s packed with flavor. It’s a great way to transform basic ingredients into something incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Quick Overview: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort dish that features tender beef cooked in a savory gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s an easy-to-make meal that combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying dinner.

A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story

One chilly evening, I decided to make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes for my family. As the beef simmered in the gravy and the potatoes were whipped to creamy perfection, the whole house smelled amazing. When it was finally time to eat, my family devoured the dish with gusto, and there were happy sighs all around. Since then, this meal has become a go-to comfort food, often requested for special family dinners.

Why This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?

Comforting Classic: A hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly nights.

Rich and Flavorful: Savory beef gravy complements creamy mashed potatoes beautifully.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish a breeze to prepare.

Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- In a large pot, cover the potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Cook the Beef and Gravy:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates. Top with the beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips

Texture: For creamier mashed potatoes, add a bit more milk or butter.
Flavor: Adjust seasoning in the gravy according to your taste preferences.
Thickening: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce it to your desired consistency.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Potatoes: Use red or Yukon gold potatoes for a different texture.
Gravy: Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.

Make a Healthier Version

Potatoes: Use skim milk and reduce the butter to lower the fat content in the mashed potatoes.
Beef: Use lean ground beef or a ground meat alternative to reduce fat.

And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you prefer a quicker option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare both the mashed potatoes and the beef gravy in advance and reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this meal? Yes, you can freeze the beef and gravy mixture. The mashed potatoes can be frozen as well. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with this dish? This meal pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

How can I make the gravy richer? Add a splash of cream or a bit of beef bouillon to enhance the flavor of the gravy.

Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture? Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition.

How do I adjust the seasoning? Taste the gravy and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can cook the beef and gravy in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

What type of beef should I use? Use ground beef with some fat content for the best flavor and texture in the gravy.