There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and savory beef gravy to bring warmth and comfort to the dinner table. On those chilly evenings when fast food just won’t cut it, I find myself craving this hearty dish—Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, filling the room with its rich, inviting aroma as it simmers on the stove.
I love how quickly this comforting recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. The joy of making it lies in how its warm flavors and satisfying textures make it an instant hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether I’m preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this dish never fails to impress and nourish those around me.
Join me as I guide you through crafting this delightful meal’s easy steps—because a delicious home-cooked dinner is just a few ingredients away!
Why is Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This dish envelopes you in rich flavors that are perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, dinner is served in no time.
Family favorite: Both kids and adults will love this hearty meal that satisfies all appetites.
Versatile touches: Adjust the recipe easily to incorporate veggies like peas or carrots for added nutrition.
Meal prep star: Make it ahead and store separately for a convenient, delicious meal ready when you are.
Indulge in this classic comfort food to elevate your dinner experience and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
• Get ready to create this cozy meal!
For the Mashed Potatoes
- Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes – Choose Yukon Gold for a buttery texture or red potatoes for a chunkier mash.
- Butter – Add richness; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Milk – Provides creaminess; non-dairy milk works too!
For the Beef Gravy
- Ground Beef – The star protein that’s super flavorful; ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes.
- Beef Broth – Enhances the gravy’s depth; adjust the amount to reach your desired consistency.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds complexity to the flavor; soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper) – Essential for bringing all the flavors to life!
Embrace this delicious Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe that promises comfort and satisfaction!
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
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Prepare Potatoes: Start by boiling your Yukon Gold or red potatoes in salted water until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them while they’re still hot, adding butter and milk until creamy and smooth.
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Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it up into crumbles, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure it’s no longer pink in the center!
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Create Gravy: Drain excess fat from the skillet, then stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve It Up: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates and generously ladle the luscious beef gravy over the top.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keeping the mashed potatoes and gravy separate will help maintain their flavors and textures.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes and beef gravy in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the potatoes seem dry.
- Quality Check: Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers, like unusual odors or changes in texture. Enjoy your comforting Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes with peace of mind!
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes?
Add delightful sides to complete the warmth of your meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds a fresh crunch that beautifully contrasts with the creamy potatoes and savory gravy. Its vibrant color also makes your plate more inviting.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of warm bread are perfect for soaking up every drop of gravy. It brings a cozy Italian twist to your comfort food experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors of the beef and potatoes. It adds an exciting twist with its sweet and tangy notes.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots offer a lovely vegetable side, enhancing the meal’s natural sweetness. Their tender exterior compliments the dish’s richness while adding another layer of flavor.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A light garden salad with seasonal greens adds a refreshing bite to the meal. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and a vinaigrette dressing for a zesty lift.
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Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note! A slice of rich chocolate cake pairs beautifully with the savory flavors, creating a satisfying contrast that leaves everyone smiling.
Elevate your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes with these perfect pairings for a complete and delicious dinner experience!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to make this cozy meal your own with these delightful twists that will spark your creativity in the kitchen!
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Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner protein option. The lighter flavor works beautifully with the gravy.
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Veggie Infusion: Stir in cooked peas, carrots, or mushrooms into the gravy for added nutrition and vibrant color. They elevate both flavor and texture!
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Cauliflower Mash: For a lower-carb version, swap out the mashed potatoes for creamy cauliflower puree. It provides a silky base that’s just as comforting.
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Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes to the gravy for a zesty heat kick! It’s a simple way to spice up your meal without much effort.
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Cheesy Delight: Fold in some shredded cheddar cheese into your mashed potatoes before serving. The melted goodness will make your dish irresistibly rich.
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Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the mashed potatoes. Their fragrant aromas will enhance the comforting flavors of the dish.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a touch of balsamic reduction over the finished dish for a sweet and tangy flavor profile that balances the richness of the gravy.
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Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy, deep flavor. This variation creates a more umami-packed sauce that’s simply divine.
Get creative, and let these variations inspire your next family dinner with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes in advance is a fantastic way to save time during the week! You can cook the mashed potatoes and beef gravy separately up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply prepare the mashed potatoes according to the recipe, then allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the beef gravy, cook as instructed, then let it cool as well before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, reheat both components gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to the gravy if it’s too thick. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that’s just as satisfying as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
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Perfect Potatoes: Boil your potatoes until fork-tender for the perfect mash. Avoid overcooking to maintain a creamy texture.
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Hot Mash: Always mash your potatoes while they’re hot! This ensures a smooth and fluffy consistency without lumps.
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Gravy Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, gradually stir in more beef broth. For a thinner gravy, simmer gently for longer until it thickens naturally.
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Add Vegetables: Boost nutrition and flavor by adding frozen peas or sautéed carrots into the gravy; they’ll offer a delightful pop of color and taste.
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Storage Tips: Leftovers? Store mashed potatoes and gravy separately in the fridge to keep them fresh. Reheat gently before serving to restore creaminess.
Embrace these tips to make your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes experience even more delightful!
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for mashed potatoes?
You can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for your mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold offers a creamy, buttery texture, while red potatoes provide a chunkier consistency. I often recommend Yukon Gold for its rich flavor and smooth finish!
How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep flavors and textures intact, separate the mashed potatoes and gravy during storage. This helps prevent the potatoes from becoming watery due to moisture from the gravy.
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Can I freeze the mashed potatoes and gravy?
Absolutely! For freezing, portion out your mashed potatoes and gravy into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy turns out thicker than expected, no worries! Just gradually stir in a little more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it on the stove for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! You can make this dish dairy-free by using plant-based butter and non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, consider substituting ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, which are leaner options. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Savor Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Potatoes: Boil Yukon Gold or red potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until creamy.
- Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook for 7-10 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Create Gravy: Drain excess fat, stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve It Up: Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle beef gravy over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
