Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience: Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes! This classic dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul and fills the belly. Whether you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or looking for a simple yet delicious dinner option, this recipe has got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every step of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Let’s gather all the ingredients needed to whip up this savory delight:

For the Ground Beef 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
• 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Now that we have all our ingredients assembled, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Add the milk and butter to the pot with the potatoes. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the ground beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Season and Simmer: Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using) to the gravy. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Add Optional Vegetables: If using frozen peas and carrots, stir them into the gravy mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto serving plates, then ladle the ground beef gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

• Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional herbs or spices to the gravy, or swap out the peas and carrots for your favorite vegetables.
• Leftover mashed potatoes and gravy can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them separately in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, here are some tips on how to serve and store this delicious dish:

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this hearty dish with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Transfer any leftover mashed potatoes and gravy to separate airtight containers and refrigerate them promptly. Properly stored, they will stay fresh for several days.
• Reheat with Care: To reheat leftovers, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes if they seem dry.

Nutrition Details

• Serving: 1 serving (estimated)
• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g
• Vitamin C: 30% DV
• Calcium: 10% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
2. What can I serve alongside this dish for a complete meal?
   • This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including steamed vegetables, salad, or dinner rolls.
3. Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them later?
   • Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Just add a splash of milk to help them regain their creamy texture.
4. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
   • Yes, you can freeze leftover mashed potatoes and gravy separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of making them from scratch?
   • Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time. Follow the package instructions to prepare them, then serve with the ground beef gravy.
6. What are some optional toppings I can add to this dish?
   • You can garnish this dish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, grated cheese, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by using meatless ground beef substitute and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
8. Can I add mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor?
   • Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms would make a delicious addition to the gravy, adding depth of flavor and texture.
9. Is this dish gluten-free?
   • To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour in the gravy.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. With its rich and savory gravy, tender ground beef, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal that’s guaranteed to warm your heart and soul!