Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

🍽️ Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

🥔 Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

For the Ground Beef & Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or thyme for added flavor

• 1 tbsp oil or butter (if needed)

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil Potatoes: Add the peeled, chunked potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

2. Drain & Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot or a mixing bowl.

3. Mash: Add the butter and warm milk (plus sour cream/cream cheese if using). Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Ground Beef & Gravy

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add Aromatics: Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

4. Add Liquid: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Taste & Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Serve

• Scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.

• Spoon the beef and gravy over the top.

• Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

📝 Tips

• Add veggies: Mix in peas, carrots, or mushrooms with the beef for a one-pan meal.

• Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the gravy for a richer flavor.

• Shortcut: Use store-bought gravy if you’re short on time (but homemade tastes better!).

🔁 Storage

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Beef & gravy freezes well. Store separately from mashed potatoes for best texture. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

Let me know if you want a one-pan version or a sheet pan twist on this recipe!