There’s something magical about a plate of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes — it’s warm, comforting, and loaded with rich, savory flavors that feel like a big hug for your taste buds! With creamy mashed potatoes soaking up every drop of beefy, velvety gravy, this dish is the ultimate definition of home-cooked comfort. Did you know this is a classic weeknight dinner across many households, thanks to its fast prep time and budget-friendly ingredients? My family always requests it after a busy day, and watching them dig in never fails to bring a smile. If you love the homestyle goodness of dishes like my Creamy Chicken and Biscuits, then you’ll absolutely adore this new favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for a quick, fuss-free meal, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes delivers every time. Ready for a flavor-packed dinner that’s guaranteed to please? Let’s dive in!
What is Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes — just saying the name makes your stomach growl a little, doesn’t it? This dish is exactly what it sounds like: hearty seasoned ground beef simmered to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory gravy, all crowned atop luscious mashed potatoes. Why such a long name? Well, we want you to know exactly what you’re getting into—no secrets here! They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and with this dish, you’ll win everyone over, no matter who’s at your dinner table. If you’re looking for a cozy recipe to impress loved ones or need an easy dinner fix, give this classic a try tonight!
Why You’ll Love This
This dish is the very definition of comfort food! The main highlight is the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes soaking up that rich, beefy gravy—each bite is both hearty and full of flavor. Making it at home is a serious cost-saver compared to dining out, and you’ll love how you can control the ingredients, making it as wholesome as you like. What really sets this meal apart are toppings like caramelized onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley—add a little cheddar cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. If you’re a fan of recipes like my Classic Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll find this one equally crave-worthy, yet even easier on a busy night. Give it a try, and discover why it’s a year-round favorite in our kitchen!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is perfect when you want something satisfying, simple, and speedy. The whole meal takes just about 40 minutes from start to finish, and there’s nothing fancy—just classic flavors done really well. A creamy, buttery mash, a savory gravy, and a protein-packed ground beef filling—it couldn’t be easier to prepare. It’s one of those meals you can whip up even when the pantry’s looking a little bare!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Step-by-Step
-
Cook the Potatoes:
Place potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. -
Prepare the Beef and Gravy:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. -
Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to eliminate lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens and coats the meat. -
Mash the Potatoes:
Drain the potatoes well and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble and Serve:
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with the ground beef and plenty of rich gravy. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or your favorite toppings, and serve hot!
What to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes With
Serve this comforting main dish with a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli to add a pop of color and freshness. Warm dinner rolls or flaky biscuits are perfect for sopping up any extra gravy. For a heartier meal, pair with a crisp garden salad or buttered corn on the cob. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a cold glass of iced tea or a light-bodied red wine makes the perfect finishing touch!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use High-Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a less greasy gravy, or use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Switch Up the Potatoes: Yukon Golds make an extra creamy mash, while russet potatoes are classic and fluffy.
- Get Creative with Add-Ins: Add peas or mushrooms to the beef for more flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Deglaze: Add the broth gradually, scraping up any brown bits in the skillet—they’re full of flavor!
- Watch the Salt: Taste as you go; gravy can easily become too salty, especially with store-bought broth.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers keep beautifully! Store the beef and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Mashed potatoes can be stored separately in another container to prevent them from becoming gummy. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture. If freezing, store the beef and gravy mixture alone (up to 2 months) and prepare fresh mashed potatoes when serving for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch! They’re convenient, but homemade will always be creamier and more flavorful.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to a day in advance, then reheat the beef and gravy gently before serving over freshly mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles make great substitutions.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
Simply simmer for a few more minutes to reduce, or add a bit more flour or cornstarch slurry if needed.
Is this meal kid-friendly?
Yes, this dish is a family favorite—even picky eaters tend to love the creamy potatoes and savory beef.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes brings together simple pantry staples for a deeply satisfying, budget-friendly meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or just craving some old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Don’t forget to explore related dishes like my Chicken and Biscuits or Shepherd’s Pie for even more hearty inspiration. Enjoy every comforting bite, and let this become a new classic in your kitchen!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Beef and Gravy Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef Lean ground beef is recommended.
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
- 4 large Potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks Yukon Golds or russets work well.
- 1/4 cup Milk Add more for creamier potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons Butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Potatoes: Place potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Gravy: While the potatoes are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Step 3: Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to eliminate lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens and coats the meat.
- Step 4: Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes well and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Assemble and Serve: Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with the ground beef and plenty of rich gravy. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or your favorite toppings, and serve hot!