Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes

Few dishes bring warmth and satisfaction like a plate of ground beef and mashed potatoes topped with savory gravy. This recipe combines tender ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, flavorful gravy that cascades over everything, creating a perfect, comforting meal that everyone can enjoy. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this classic dish come to life in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish of ground beef and mashed potatoes, complete with a rich gravy:

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• Ground Beef (1 pound): A versatile and hearty protein that forms the base of the dish.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a subtle kick and aromatic flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Used to thicken the gravy, giving it a smooth, rich consistency.
• Beef Broth (2 cups): The primary liquid for the gravy, enhancing the beefy flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, umami punch to the gravy.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish.
• Thyme (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a mild earthy flavor; you can skip if not preferred.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots (1 cup, optional): Adds color, texture, and extra nutrients to the gravy.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and quartered): The foundation of the mashed potatoes; russets or Yukon Golds work well for a creamy texture.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Helps create a creamy, smooth texture in the mashed potatoes.
• Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a buttery flavor to the potatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavor of the potatoes.

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing your peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the potatoes completely, then bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium. Let the potatoes cook for about 15–20 minutes or until they’re tender enough for a fork to pierce through effortlessly. The fork test ensures the potatoes are soft, which is key to achieving a smooth, lump-free mash.
2. Drain and Mash: After boiling, drain the potatoes well, then return them to the warm pot. This helps any excess moisture evaporate, which will lead to creamier mashed potatoes. Add 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter to the pot. Use a potato masher or a sturdy fork to mash until the potatoes are smooth and creamy, with no lumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste, tasting as you go to ensure it’s just right. Once mashed, cover the pot to keep the potatoes warm while you prepare the beef and gravy.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning. This process usually takes about 7–10 minutes. As the beef browns, it will release fat, so periodically drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy final dish and to help the flavors concentrate in the gravy.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent. This step allows the onions and garlic to release their aromatic flavors, which infuse the beef with a savory richness. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness to the dish.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Incorporate Flour: With the beef, onions, and garlic still in the skillet, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to coat the beef in flour and cook out the raw flour taste. The flour acts as a thickening agent, helping the gravy achieve a smooth, rich consistency.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth, stirring as you add it to prevent lumps from forming. Next, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth, then season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if you like a subtle earthy flavor). Stir everything together thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the gravy.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Lower the heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer gently. This should take about 5 minutes, during which time the gravy will thicken to a rich, smooth texture. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking. For added nutrition and color, you can mix in 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots; these will cook through as the gravy thickens, adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.

Step 4: Serve the Dish

1. Assemble the Plate: Begin plating by adding a generous scoop of mashed potatoes to each plate or bowl. Make a small well in the center of the potatoes to hold the gravy, if desired. This creates a comforting visual and helps the potatoes soak up the gravy for added flavor with each bite.
2. Top with Gravy: Ladle the warm, savory ground beef gravy over the mashed potatoes, letting it cascade down the sides for a hearty, home-cooked presentation.
3. Garnish and Serve: For a final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of green and a hint of brightness. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the cozy, satisfying combination of creamy mashed potatoes and rich beef gravy.

Variations and Substitutions

To make this dish your own, try these easy swaps and add-ins:

• Different Meats: For a twist on flavor, replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each option brings a unique taste, and these swaps can also fit different dietary needs.
• Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Swap beef broth for vegetable broth, creating a delicious meat-free dish that still feels hearty and satisfying.
• Additional Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the gravy. These veggies add color, texture, and an extra layer of nutrition.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or basil, for an aromatic touch, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a bit of warmth and spice.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: To make the mashed potatoes even richer, mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. This adds a velvety texture and depth of flavor that elevates the potatoes to a new level of creaminess.

These simple variations allow you to tailor the dish to your tastes and dietary preferences, making it both flexible and delicious.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

To make the most flavorful, satisfying version of this classic comfort dish, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use Day-Old Potatoes: Boiling and chilling the potatoes overnight gives them a fluffier texture, allowing them to hold up better with the gravy’s moisture, making each bite perfect.
• Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: Over-mixing can break down the starch in potatoes, leading to a gummy texture. Mash them just until smooth for a light, creamy consistency.
• Season Gradually: Adding salt and pepper to each component—potatoes, beef, and gravy—throughout cooking helps to build well-rounded, balanced flavors.
• Low and Slow for the Gravy: Simmering the gravy on low heat allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer, deeper taste. Patience here will give the gravy a luscious, smooth consistency that elevates the dish.

Conclusion

Ground beef and mashed potatoes are a timeless combination that brings both comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this hearty dish in no time. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the flavorful beef gravy, every bite is guaranteed to be packed with warmth and goodness. Serve this dish at family dinners, or make it for a cozy night in—it’s sure to be a hit!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare both the mashed potatoes and beef gravy in advance. For best results, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the potatoes by gently warming them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk and stir to restore the creamy texture if they’ve thickened while stored. The beef gravy can also be reheated on the stove, adding a little extra beef broth if it’s too thick.
2. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
   Yes! This recipe is versatile and can be made with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a slightly different flavor. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you can substitute with plant-based ground meat alternatives, which absorb the gravy’s flavors beautifully. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster, and plant-based options might require a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
3. How can I make dairy-free mashed potatoes?
   Dairy-free mashed potatoes are easy to make! Substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, to maintain the creamy texture. For richness, use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter. Start with a small amount and add more as needed until you reach the desired creaminess. These dairy-free potatoes will still be smooth, flavorful, and perfect with the beef gravy.
4. What’s the best way to avoid lumps in mashed potatoes?
   Lumps can be avoided by fully cooking the potatoes until they’re very tender. Make sure to test with a fork; if it slides in effortlessly, the potatoes are ready for mashing. Use a potato masher or a potato ricer to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency. Avoid using a food processor or blender, as these can overwork the starches, resulting in a gummy texture rather than a light and fluffy mash.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
   Definitely! Peas and carrots are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with other vegetables. Mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor, bell peppers contribute a mild sweetness and vibrant color, and spinach gives a nutrient boost. You can add these vegetables directly to the gravy while it’s simmering or sauté them with the onions and garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

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