Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy day? This Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory, rich beef gravy, this dish is a classic that never disappoints. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying, it’s a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional for extra depth)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or butter (optional, for cooking)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (adjust for desired creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 16-21 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher.
- Stir in butter and milk (start with less and adjust as needed). Season with salt and pepper. Cover and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef and Gravy
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. If needed, add a little oil or butter to coat the pan.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles until browned. Drain any excess fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually stir in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and thyme (if using). Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble and Serve
- Scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate.
- Spoon the ground beef and gravy mixture over the top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve hot.
Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
For a richer gravy, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end of cooking.
If you prefer a vegetable-packed version, stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas along with the onions.
For a low-carb twist, swap the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash or serve the beef gravy over steamed rice or buttered noodles.
If you’re looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef—just use chicken broth instead of beef broth for the gravy.
For extra depth, add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar when deglazing the pan. If you love spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
Tips
For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use warm milk or cream and add it gradually to avoid making them too runny.
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a fluffy texture. If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can be a quick substitute, though homemade is always more flavorful.
When making the gravy, if it’s too thick, thin it with a little extra broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer or mix in a small slurry of cornstarch and water.
Browning the beef well adds extra flavor, so avoid overcrowding the pan. For a smoother gravy, you can blend it briefly with an immersion blender before serving.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to the gravy to loosen it up.
The mashed potatoes may thicken when chilled, so stir in a little milk while reheating to restore creaminess.
For longer storage, the beef gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, but their texture may change slightly—stir well after reheating to smooth them out. For best results, assemble the dish fresh when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Gravy over Mashed Potatoes is a timeless comfort dish that’s both hearty and easy to make. The creamy potatoes and savory beef gravy create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor.
Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete, comforting dinner that everyone will love. Enjoy!