If there’s one meal that wraps you up in a warm hug after a long day, it’s Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This dish brings the classic duo of creamy potatoes and savory beef gravy straight to your table with no fuss, just pure comfort. Each bite marries tender beef, aromatic onions, and a rich, silky gravy spooned over a fluffy mountain of mashed potatoes—the definition of homey satisfaction. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that makes you feel instantly at ease, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a keeper you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of everyday staples to make this recipe sing! Each ingredient has a purpose, from building rich flavors to making sure every spoonful of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes feels hearty, balanced, and totally crave-worthy.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides the savory base and satisfying protein the dish is known for.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps soften your onions and beef, adding a subtle richness.
- Onion, small, diced: Gives the gravy a sweet depth and gentle bite.
- Garlic, 2 cloves, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the gravy, transforming pan juices into a luscious sauce.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Sets the foundation for your gravy’s deep, savory taste.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Boosts umami and adds complexity to the gravy.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Enhances seasoning and adds a little salty depth.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out savory flavors with gentle heat.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to bring every element together.
- Mashed potatoes (4 cups, prepared): Soft, creamy, and the perfect vessel for soaking up that beautiful gravy.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of green and fresh finish.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onions and let them cook until they turn translucent and begin to smell sweet, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just enough for that garlicky goodness to bloom without burning. This step gives your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes its irresistible aroma right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add your ground beef directly to the skillet with the softened onions and garlic. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, and watch as it transforms from pink to rich brown. You want the beef to be fully cooked and crumbly, not clumped. Once there’s no pink left, drain off any excess grease—this keeps your dish hearty but not heavy.
Step 3: Make the Gravy Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked beef, then stir well until no streaks of flour remain. Let this mixture cook for about a minute, which toasts the flour slightly and banishes any raw taste. This simple move will work wonders for the thickness and flavor of your gravy.
Step 4: Build the Savory Gravy
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The mixture will start to transform into a smooth, glossy sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper, stirring to blend the flavors. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the gravy is perfectly thickened and glossy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning!
Step 5: Serve Over Mashed Potatoes
To finish, generously spoon the hot beef and savory gravy mixture over fluffy mounds of mashed potatoes. Go big—this is comfort food, after all! For a finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like. Your plate of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is ready to serve and sure to be devoured.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
Top your finished plates with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal lift. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of cracked black pepper or a little sprinkle of flaky salt can add an extra layer of flavor to your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes.
Side Dishes
This hearty main goes beautifully with simple, classic sides. Try pairing with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp, leafy green salad for contrast. A warm, buttered dinner roll is a homey addition—think of it as the perfect tool for mopping up every last bit of gravy!
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes into individual layered bowls for a fun, bistro-style feel. Or, scoop out small portions into ramekins for a rustic mini pot pie effect. For family-style, serve everything in one big platter and let everyone dig in—cozy dinner vibes guaranteed.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the beef and gravy to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For mashed potatoes, keep them covered separately to preserve their creaminess. This makes reheating super easy, so you can enjoy another comforting meal in a flash.
Freezing
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is freezer-friendly, making it a hero for busy weeks. Let the beef and gravy cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. The mashed potatoes can also be portioned and frozen, though the texture might be slightly softer after reheating. Label with the date, and enjoy within 2 months for the best taste.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the beef and gravy gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Microwave works too—use short intervals and stir often to avoid hot spots. Mashed potatoes reheat well covered with a little added milk or cream for fluffiness. Assemble just before serving for a freshly made feel.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are delicious, lighter alternatives in this recipe. They soak up all that gravy just as well, and you can season them a touch more generously to bring out their best flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (mixed with a splash of water) to thicken the gravy. Just double-check all your sauces for hidden gluten if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
Can I prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Definitely. Make the mashed potatoes one or two days ahead and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat gently with a little milk or butter stirred in to bring back their creamy texture.
What can I add to make the gravy extra rich?
For extra indulgence, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream right before serving. This adds richness and makes the flavor even more luxurious—a little goes a long way!
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer a minute or two longer, stirring occasionally. To thin it out, add a splash more beef broth or water until you reach your ideal consistency.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to beat the simple, soul-satisfying pleasure of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This is comfort food at its very best—easy to make, wonderfully filling, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and see why it deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation!
Print
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty dish, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic favorite that brings together savory ground beef in a rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
- Add Flour and Broth: Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring.
- Season and Simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve beef and gravy over mashed potatoes. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For added richness, mix in butter or cream into the gravy before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
