A comforting and hearty dish, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes and rich, savory beef gravy.
What Is Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic dish featuring seasoned ground beef cooked in a flavorful gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s an easy-to-make meal that is both satisfying and budget-friendly.
The History Behind the Dish
This dish has roots in traditional comfort food, often prepared in home kitchens across the U.S. as an affordable and filling meal. Variations of it exist in different cultures, such as shepherd’s pie in the UK and beef stroganoff in Eastern Europe.
Why This Dish Is Perfect Year-Round
This recipe is great for all seasons:
- Winter: A warm, hearty meal for cold nights.
- Spring & Summer: A quick dinner that doesn’t require much cooking.
- Fall: A cozy dish to complement the season’s flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the diced potatoes until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat oil in a pan and add chopped onions.
- Sauté until soft, then add minced garlic and ground beef.
- Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Sprinkle flour over the beef, stirring to coat.
- Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate.
- Ladle the beef and gravy mixture over the potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Best Pairings for This Dish
This dish pairs well with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted carrots
- A crisp garden salad
Health Benefits
- Protein-rich: Ground beef provides essential nutrients.
- Nutrient-dense: Potatoes offer fiber and vitamins.
- Low-cost meal: A budget-friendly, nutritious option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to do with ground beef and mashed potatoes?
You can make shepherd’s pie, stuffed peppers, or a casserole using these ingredients.
What happens when you overbeat mashed potatoes?
Overbeating releases too much starch, making them gummy instead of fluffy.
What meat goes well with mashed potatoes and gravy?
Besides ground beef, you can pair mashed potatoes with turkey, chicken, or lamb.
How healthy are mashed potatoes and gravy?
While rich in carbs, mashed potatoes offer fiber and vitamins. Opt for healthier versions with less butter and cream.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave.
Suggested Recipes
For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here