Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a satisfying dinner. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory ground beef in rich gravy, and optional vegetables creates a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing. Follow this recipe to bring warmth to your table with every bite.
Ingredients:
For Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lb potatoes, quartered and peeled
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/2 tsp curry powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen carrots and peas (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
Start by making the creamy mashed potatoes:
- Place the quartered and peeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.
- Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. Cover and set aside while preparing the ground beef and gravy.
2. Cook Ground Beef and Gravy:
Next, prepare the savory ground beef and gravy:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook it with the ground beef until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is aromatic.
3. Make the Gravy:
Create a flavorful gravy to complement the ground beef:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked ground beef mixture in the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour and create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the optional curry powder, if using, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Optional Vegetables:
Enhance the dish with frozen carrots and peas:
- If desired, add the frozen carrots and peas to the ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve:
Assemble and serve the Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:
- Spoon a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each serving plate.
- Top the mashed potatoes with a generous helping of the savory ground beef and gravy mixture.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish with your favorite side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheesy Variation: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot mashed potatoes before adding the ground beef and gravy for a cheesy twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and ground beef mixture ahead of time. Reheat separately and assemble just before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Add more spices like paprika, thyme, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying and comforting meal. With creamy mashed potatoes, savory ground beef in rich gravy, and optional vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers hearty flavors and warmth with every bite.
Enjoy preparing and sharing this delicious meal with loved ones, and savor the comforting flavors that make it a timeless classic on any dinner table.
