Ground Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Few dishes rival the warmth and satisfaction of ground beef & gravy over mashed potatoes. This hearty recipe combines rich, savory gravy with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a nostalgic family dish, this recipe has you covered.

Introduction to the Dish

Ground beef and gravy have been staples in many kitchens, often paired with mashed potatoes for a classic, affordable meal. This dish embodies comfort food at its best, combining simplicity with rich flavors. For a detailed guide on mashed potatoes, check out Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe, a must-read for perfecting this creamy side.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

• Quick and Easy: Ground beef cooks quickly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple, inexpensive ingredients create a filling, satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with additional vegetables or seasoning tweaks.

For similar comfort dishes, explore the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles, another family favorite.

Ingredients for Ground Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

This recipe relies on pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients:

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean or medium ground beef.
• Flour or Cornstarch: For thickening the gravy.
• Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory base.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Potatoes: Choose Russet or Yukon Gold for creamy mashed potatoes.
• Butter, Milk, and Cream: Essential for fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preparing the Ground Beef and Gravy

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
• Drain excess grease and add onions for flavor.
• Sprinkle flour or cornstarch over the beef, stirring to coat.
• Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
• Add seasonings and simmer until the gravy thickens.

2. Making Perfect Mashed Potatoes

• Boil peeled and chopped potatoes until fork-tender.
• Mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and cream for a velvety texture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Bringing It All Together

• Spoon the mashed potatoes onto a plate.
• Ladle the rich gravy and ground beef mixture over the top.

Variations and Tips

Healthy Options

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Substitute regular potatoes with cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative.

Vegetarian Version

• Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Flavor Enhancements

• Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to deepen the gravy flavor.
• Include sautéed vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans.

Advanced Tips

• For extra creaminess, stir sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes.
• Use homemade beef stock for a richer gravy.

FAQs About Ground Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Yes! Replace flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
2. What’s the best type of ground beef to use?
   • A lean-to-medium mix (80/20 or 85/15) balances flavor and reduces excess grease.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   • Absolutely! Store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
4. How do I prevent lumps in the gravy?
   • Gradually whisk the broth into the flour-coated beef for a smooth consistency.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   • Pair it with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

• Main Dish: Serve the hearty combination of ground beef and mashed potatoes as the centerpiece of your meal.
• Sides: Complement with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.

Internal Linking Opportunities

• Perfect Brown Gravy Guide – Rich anchor text: how to make smooth and flavorful gravy.
• Twice Baked Potato Casserole – Rich anchor text: a creamy, cheesy potato alternative.
• Homemade Hamburger Helper – Rich anchor text: easy ground beef recipes.

Conclusion

Ground Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a timeless comfort food that brings people together with its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative variations, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Ready to bring this warm, hearty meal to your table? Start cooking today!