Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: A Comfort Food Favorite

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When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a steaming plate of mashed potatoes smothered in rich, savory gravy, topped with tender ground beef. This classic dish has the power to make you feel right at home, whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight.

In this article, we’ll show you how to create the perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes that’s hearty, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal for your family or want to impress guests with your cooking skills, this dish is versatile, affordable, and quick to prepare.

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

There’s something undeniably comforting about Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. The creamy, fluffy potatoes mixed with the savory, hearty beef gravy creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors. But it’s not just the taste that makes this dish special; it’s also the feeling of comfort and warmth it brings to the table.

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners: When you need a quick, filling meal, this recipe is ideal. It requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Family gatherings: You can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a crowd.
• Comforting meals: When you’re craving something rich and satisfying, this dish will hit the spot.

If you’ve been looking for a way to elevate your comfort food game, then Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the recipe you’ve been waiting for.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Before you start cooking, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need for each part of the recipe. Don’t worry; it’s simple and you might already have most of these items in your kitchen.

Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

To make the mashed potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Water	As needed
Salt	½ teaspoon (to taste)
Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes	2 pounds, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
Butter	3 tablespoons
Whole Milk	½ cup
Garlic Powder	To taste
Salt & Black Pepper	To taste

Ground Beef and Gravy Ingredients

For the ground beef and gravy portion, gather the following:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground Beef	1 pound
Beef Broth	2 cups, divided
Onion (small, chopped)	1
Garlic Powder	To taste
Salt & Black Pepper	To taste
Cornstarch	2 tablespoons

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to start cooking the most comforting meal!

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. The process is straightforward and easy to follow, and we’ll break it down into simple steps so you can make the dish without any stress.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes
   Start by filling a medium pot with water. Add ½ teaspoon of salt (or more if you prefer) and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, add your peeled and cut potatoes. Boil them for about 7-8 minutes or until you can easily pierce them with a fork. The key is to cook them until they’re soft and ready to be mashed.
2. Prepare the Butter and Milk Mixture
   While the potatoes are boiling, it’s time to prepare the creamy mixture that will make your mashed potatoes irresistible. In a small saucepan, add 3 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of whole milk. Heat this over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the butter has fully melted. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can microwave the butter and milk in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and whisking between each burst.
3. Drain and Dry the Potatoes
   Once the potatoes are done boiling, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. Leave them on the burner (but not turned on) for a minute to allow any excess moisture to evaporate. This helps ensure your mashed potatoes aren’t too watery.
4. Mash and Season
   Now it’s time to mash the potatoes! Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Gradually stir in the butter-milk mixture. Be sure to incorporate all the liquid, making your mashed potatoes smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
5. Set Aside
   Once your mashed potatoes are ready, set them aside while you prepare the ground beef and gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Ground Beef and Gravy

1. Cook the Ground Beef
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess liquid or grease from the skillet to keep your gravy from being too greasy.
2. Prepare the Gravy
   Add 1½ cups of beef broth, the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
3. Thicken the Gravy
   In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of beef broth with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this cornstarch mixture into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Combine and Serve
   Now it’s time to bring everything together. Divide the creamy mashed potatoes among serving plates, and top each with a generous amount of ground beef and gravy. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious comfort food!

Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Tips for Mashed Potatoes:

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for fluffy mashed potatoes, while Yukon Gold potatoes will give you a creamier texture. Choose based on your preference!
• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and watery, which will affect the texture of your mashed potatoes.
• Use warm milk and butter: Adding cold milk and butter to your mashed potatoes can make them colder and less creamy. Use warmed ingredients to make the mashing process smoother.   Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3

• Brown the beef properly: Ensure the beef is browned thoroughly for a rich, savory flavor. Don’t rush this step.
• Add Worcestershire sauce: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy. It adds depth and umami.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the garlic powder, salt, or pepper to suit your taste. Every palate is different, and you can make the flavors your own.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

While Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is delicious on its own, here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Pair with vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Add a fresh salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes and savory beef.
• Garnish: Top the dish with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute Yukon Gold potatoes for Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds will give you a creamier mash, while Russets are fluffier. You can also use red potatoes for a slightly more textured mash.

How can I make the gravy thicker without cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can use flour as an alternative. Create a slurry by mixing the flour with some cold beef broth before adding it to the skillet. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.

How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftover Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra broth or milk if the gravy thickens too much.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Both the mashed potatoes and the ground beef gravy can be made ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a meal that checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving it up for a weekend family gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Now that you know how to make this delicious dish, why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that will leave everyone at the table feeling full and happy. And don’t forget to share your experience with us! We’d love to hear how you put your spin on this comforting classic.

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