Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Quick, easy, and super budget-friendly, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish brings comfort food to a whole new level with its rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s a timeless classic that has been cherished in many households, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Family-Friendly Flavor – The savory ground beef combined with creamy mashed potatoes will please both kids and adults alike.
• Budget-Friendly – This dish offers great taste without breaking the bank, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Meal Option – Pair it with your favorite vegetables or serve it as is; it fits any dining scenario effortlessly.
• Hearty and Filling – This meal is designed to satisfy hunger and provide warmth during chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful dish, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Pot
• Potato masher
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Pot – A sturdy pot is essential for boiling potatoes evenly to achieve that perfect creamy texture.
• Potato masher – A good masher helps you create smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes without lumps.
• Skillet – An even-heating skillet allows for proper browning of the ground beef, enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl – Useful for combining ingredients easily without making a mess.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– water
– 1 tablespoon salt (more or less to taste)
– 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces; or Yukon gold potatoes)
– 3 tablespoons butter (at room temperature)
– ½ cup whole milk (at room temperature)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– salt (to taste)
– freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– ¼ cup beef broth (low-sodium if desired)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 ½ cups beef broth (low-sodium if desired)
– ½ cup chopped white onion (approximately 1 small onion)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
– ¼-½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding salt.
1. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
2. Carefully add the peeled and cut potatoes.
3. Cook for about 15 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Once cooked, drain the potatoes well.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes with butter, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Use a potato masher to mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the ground beef mixture in a skillet.
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add chopped onions.
2. Sauté until they become translucent.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

Incorporate broth into your ground beef mixture:
1. Stir in beef broth along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry; then add it to the skillet to thicken the gravy as it simmers.

Step 5: Serve Together

Finally:
1. Spoon generous portions of mashed potatoes onto plates.
2. Top with hearty servings of ground beef gravy.
3. Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in bowls – Ladle the ground beef and gravy over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Garnish with parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to each serving.

Family Style

• Serve on a large platter – Arrange the mashed potatoes in the center and pour the beef and gravy over them for an inviting presentation.
• Provide toppings – Set out toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or sour cream for custom servings.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins – Serve individual portions of ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes in ramekins for a personal touch.
• Add a side salad – Pair with a small Caesar or garden salad for a balanced meal.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

To make your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes truly outstanding, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold seasoning – Season the beef with adequate salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
• Creamy mash – Ensure your mashed potatoes are creamy by using room temperature butter and milk, which helps achieve that smooth texture.
• Thicken wisely – Use cornstarch mixed with broth for a smooth gravy without lumps; add gradually until desired thickness is achieved.
• Cook onions thoroughly – Sautéing onions until they are golden brings out their sweetness, elevating the dish’s overall flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Complementing your main dish with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider:

1. Steamed Green Beans – Bright green beans provide a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts add depth and flavor contrast to your meal.
3. Garlic Bread – A slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.
4. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw brings a crunchy, tangy element that balances the richness of the main dish.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds vibrant color and natural sweetness; grill or boil until tender.
6. Mashed Cauliflower – For a lower-carb option, serve fluffy mashed cauliflower alongside the beef for extra creaminess without all the carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure that your butter and milk are at room temperature for smoother mashed potatoes. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste your dishes as you cook. Adding salt and pepper should be done gradually, allowing you to adjust to your preference.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Boil the potatoes until just tender. Overcooked potatoes can become watery and mushy, affecting the overall texture.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef and onions adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it enhances the taste significantly.
• Neglecting cornstarch mixing: Always mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water before adding it to the gravy. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Divide into smaller portions for easy thawing.

Reheating Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes healthier?

You can use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for fewer calories. Also, consider using low-fat milk in your mashed potatoes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to cooking, then store the components separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for added nutrition.

How do I enhance the flavor of my gravy?

Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavor profile without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a comforting dish that brings joy to any table. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich flavors allow for endless customization options—try adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste!