This timeless dish combines savory ground beef in a rich, thick gravy with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, creating the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your home.
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk (or adjust for desired consistency)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Beef and Gravy:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots for added color and nutrients
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the pot to keep the potatoes warm while you prepare the beef and gravy.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Make the Gravy
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5 minutes, or until onions are softened and translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to incorporate any browned bits from the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, if using, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Serve
- Spoon creamy mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls.
- Top with the beef and gravy mixture, ensuring each bite has a little bit of everything.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tips and Variations
Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms to the beef mixture for an earthy flavor, or experiment with other vegetables like green beans or corn for extra texture and nutrients.
Alternative Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter twist. Adjust seasoning as needed to bring out the flavors.
Mashed Potato Variations: For added depth, mix sweet potatoes with regular potatoes. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory beef gravy.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare mashed potatoes in advance. When ready to serve, reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. The beef and gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
How to Store
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Beef and gravy freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Reheating: For mashed potatoes, add a little milk and stir as you reheat to maintain creaminess. Reheat the beef mixture in a saucepan over medium heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free butter and milk alternatives in the mashed potatoes, such as almond milk or oat milk, for a dairy-free version. - What type of beef broth should I use?
Any low-sodium beef broth works well. Adjust salt as needed depending on the broth’s sodium level. - Can I make this gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener in place of regular flour. - How can I add more flavor to the gravy?
A dash of soy sauce, a pinch of thyme, or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add depth to the gravy’s flavor.
This hearty beef and gravy with mashed potatoes is sure to become a family favorite in your home, just like it did in ours. It’s a dish that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with creamy potatoes and savory beef gravy that satisfy with every bite.