Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Introduction

Few comfort foods rival the warmth and satisfaction of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This classic dish, with its rich beefy gravy and creamy mashed potatoes, is a staple in many homes. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of savory ground beef gravy served over fluffy mashed potatoes creates a hearty dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will become a regular in your meal rotation.

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Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Gravy:

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, protein-rich base for the gravy.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the gravy.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild, aromatic taste.
• 2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency.
• 2 cups beef broth: Adds richness and moisture to the gravy, creating a savory sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami flavor, boosting the gravy’s depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance the flavors.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed: The base of the dish, providing a creamy and fluffy texture.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and a smooth, silky texture.
• Salt to taste: Enhances the flavor of the potatoes.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can check the doneness by piercing a potato cube with a fork; it should easily slide off.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, and salt. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Ground Beef Gravy

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Be sure to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the gravy from being too greasy.
2. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually stir in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season to Taste: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust as needed.

Step 3: Serve the Dish

1. Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Ladle the hot ground beef gravy over the top, allowing it to pool around the potatoes.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, hearty meal!

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Serving and Storage Tips

Serving: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the stove. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, like green beans or peas, for a balanced meal. A slice of crusty bread can also be a great accompaniment to soak up any extra gravy.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mashed potatoes and gravy separately in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If the gravy thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

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Variations

1. Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of richness.
3. Herb-Infused Gravy: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for a fragrant, earthy twist.

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FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that can be used in place of ground beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

2. How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy? To make your mashed potatoes extra creamy, you can add a little more butter or milk. For an even richer texture, substitute some of the milk with cream or sour cream.

3. What kind of potatoes should I use? Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content, resulting in a fluffy and creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly buttery flavor.

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