Description

Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. This hearty dish is simple to prepare and offers a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for family dinners or any occasion when you need something cozy and delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite

Ingredients

• For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil for cooking
• For the Mashed Potatoes:
• 4 to 5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for creamier mashed potatoes

Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the milk and butter in a small saucepan until the butter is melted. After draining the potatoes, return them to the pot and mash them well. Gradually add the milk and butter mixture, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer creamier mashed potatoes, add the heavy cream. Keep the mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the ground beef.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 5: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked ground beef and stir well, allowing the flour to cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, if using. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve
Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate and top with the ground beef and gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Flavor Variations: Try adding different herbs to the gravy, such as rosemary or sage, to give the dish a different flavor profile.

Add Vegetables: For a more complete meal, you can add carrots, peas, or corn to the gravy along with the ground beef.

Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade beef broth for a deeper, richer flavor.

Conclusion:
Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes is a dish that brings all the comfort of home-cooked food in one simple, delicious meal. This classic recipe is perfect for any night of the week, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. With basic ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy this comforting dish, and don’t forget to save some for the next day—it tastes even better!