Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef smothered in a rich and savory gravy, served atop creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or comforting weeknight suppers. Follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create this delicious classic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Get ready to enjoy a comforting meal with these simple ingredients: For the Ground Beef Gravy:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
   • In a large pot, cover the potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
   • Add milk and butter, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside to keep warm.
2. Cook Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Make Gravy:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef and onions, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
   • Gradually stir in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let the gravy thicken, about 5 minutes.
   • If using, add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until they are heated through.
4. Serve:
   • Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls. Top with the hearty ground beef gravy. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serve Hot: Enjoy Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture. The comforting warmth of the dish adds to its appeal.
2. Garnish Before Serving: For added flavor and visual appeal, consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dash of paprika.
3. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
4. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat them in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.
5. Freeze for Future Meals: If you want to enjoy Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes at a later date, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Transfer the cooled dish to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
6. Thaw Before Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This gradual thawing helps maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
7. Refresh Mashed Potatoes: If the mashed potatoes become dry upon reheating, add a splash of milk or broth and stir well to revive their creaminess.
8. Portion Control: Consider portioning out individual servings of leftovers before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need, reducing food waste.
9. Add Freshness: Serve leftover Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal.
10. Enjoy Creative Leftovers: Transform leftover mashed potatoes and gravy into new dishes, such as shepherd’s pie, potato pancakes, or beef pot pie. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to keep mealtime exciting.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based alternative like Beyond Meat. Adjust cooking times and seasoning to suit your chosen meat.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Ensure all other ingredients, including beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and beef gravy ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat each component separately before serving for the best results.
4. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
   • Absolutely! Leftovers of ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they’re properly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. How can I adjust the consistency of the gravy?
   • If the gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy while simmering until it reaches the desired consistency.
6. What can I serve alongside this dish?
   • Common side dishes that pair well with ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes include steamed vegetables, green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple side salad.