Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a simple, comforting dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory beef and rich gravy poured over creamy mashed potatoes creates the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients:

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef 🥩

• 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅

• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄

• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)

• 2 cups beef broth 🍲

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂

• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional) 🌿

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed 🥔

• 1/2 cup milk or cream 🥛

• 2 tbsp butter 🧈

• Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

• Begin by peeling and cubing the 4-5 large potatoes. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the 1/2 cup milk (or cream) and 2 tbsp butter. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

• While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 lb ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

• Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Make the Gravy:

• Sprinkle the 2 tbsp flour over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat the meat in the flour, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

• Gradually pour in the 2 cups beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, add 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy gets too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your preferred thickness.

4. Serve the Dish:

• To serve, spoon a generous amount of the mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with the ground beef and gravy mixture, making sure to pour plenty of gravy over the potatoes.

• Garnish with additional herbs or freshly ground black pepper if desired.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Vegetable Side: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables such as green beans, peas, or carrots to add a burst of color and nutrients to the meal.

• Crusty Bread: Pair this dish with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra gravy.

• Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potatoes before adding the beef and gravy.

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Tips for Success:

• Customize the Gravy: You can add extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of red wine to the gravy for more depth of flavor.

• Creamier Mashed Potatoes: For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, you can add a little more butter and milk. Using cream instead of milk will also make them richer.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and the beef gravy ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

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Nutritional Information:

Each serving of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes (based on 4 servings) contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients. It provides a good amount of protein from the ground beef and healthy carbohydrates from the potatoes.

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Who Would Benefit from This Dish:

• Families: This hearty and filling dish is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights when you want something comforting and easy to make.

• Comfort Food Lovers: If you love traditional comfort food that’s simple to prepare, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

• Meal Preppers: This dish stores well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it ideal for meal prepping and reheating for a quick lunch or dinner.

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Conclusion:

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food that is both satisfying and delicious. The creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the savory beef and rich gravy, creating a meal that’s full of flavor and warmth. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or any occasion when you want something hearty and comforting. Enjoy!