Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish to feed the family, this recipe delivers both convenience and taste.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you'll have a budget-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let's dive into the best way to make this homestyle favorite from scratch!
Why You'll Love This Dish
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Family-Approved – Loved by kids and adults alike
✅ Versatile – Can be customized with different seasonings
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Gravy
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and onions are soft (about 3 minutes).
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Push beef to one side of the pan. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in flour, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens to a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Spoon creamy mashed potatoes onto plates.
- Pour the beef and gravy mixture generously over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Gravy
✔ Use High-Quality Ground Beef – 80/20 provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
✔ Thicken the Gravy Properly – Cooking the flour with butter for a minute prevents a raw taste.
✔ Enhance Flavor – Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the gravy.
✔ Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Use heavy cream instead of milk for extra richness.
Variations & Additions
🔹 Add Mushrooms – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for a richer taste.
🔹 Use Ground Turkey – A leaner option while keeping the same great flavor.
🔹 Spice It Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
🔹 Cheesy Mashed Potatoes – Mix in shredded cheddar for extra indulgence.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Gravy
- Steamed Vegetables (Green beans, carrots, or peas)
- Side Salad (For a refreshing contrast)
- Buttered Corn (A classic pairing)
- Garlic Bread (Perfect for soaking up extra gravy)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
✅ Calories: ~450
✅ Protein: ~25g
✅ Carbs: ~40g
✅ Fat: ~22g
Final Thoughts
Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is a timeless dish that's easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate homemade comfort food!
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