Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for cozy family dinners or weeknight meals. Tender ground beef cooked in a rich and savory gravy and served over creamy mashed potatoes results in a delectable combination of flavors and textures that will warm your soul with each bite. This timeless classic, which is simple to make and full of homemade goodness, is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Beef and Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil Potatoes:
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk or cream. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm while preparing the beef and gravy.
For the Beef and Gravy:
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Brown Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken with Flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked ground beef and stir to combine, allowing the flour to cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Assembly:
- Serve Over Mashed Potatoes:
- To serve, spoon the beef and gravy mixture over the warm mashed potatoes.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the beef and gravy mixture.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more beef broth or water.
- Leftover Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food that never fails to please. With creamy mashed potatoes and savory beef gravy, it’s ideal for warming up on cold nights or sharing with loved ones at the dinner table. Make a batch for your next family dinner and watch as everyone gathers for seconds of this delectable homemade treat!