If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you simply must try this Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s a timeless comfort classic that brings together rich, savory beef gravy smothered over silky mashed potatoes for a combination that’s utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish offers both simplicity and satisfaction with every bite. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays a vital role in building that rich gravy or creamy potatoes, balancing richness, texture, and taste perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that brings meaty flavor and texture to your gravy.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften onions and garlic for a fragrant start.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle kick and aromatic warmth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The magic thickener that turns your beef broth into luscious gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates the hearty, savory base juice for your gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami complexity and a touch of tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a hint of heat and spice balance.
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared): The creamy, fluffy bed for your warming gravy.
How to Make Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding your ground beef. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon so it cooks evenly and achieves that perfect texture. As it cooks, you’ll notice the rich aroma filling your kitchen — such an inviting start! Remove any excess grease before the next step to keep your gravy smooth and not oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic in Butter
Now add the butter to your skillet along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft and the garlic releases its irresistible fragrance. This step layers flavor and ensures your gravy won’t be one-dimensional.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetables, stirring constantly for about a minute. This creates a roux, which is a thickening paste that transforms into the luscious gravy later on. Keep stirring so the flour cooks off and doesn’t taste raw — this little technique makes all the difference.
Step 4: Add the Beef Broth
Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to combine smoothly. Whisking constantly prevents lumps from forming and allows the mixture to start thickening. This part is where your gravy begins to take shape and thicken up into that delectable sauce you’re dreaming of.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper to your gravy, giving it one last stir. Reduce the heat and let the gravy simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This simmering step helps meld all the flavors together, while your gravy thickens to a perfect consistency that clings beautifully to every spoonful.
Step 6: Serve Over Mashed Potatoes
Your final move is to spoon the hot, savory beef gravy generously over prepared mashed potatoes. The contrast between the creamy potatoes and the meaty gravy is what makes this classic combo so comforting and satisfying.
How to Serve Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives over the gravy adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor pop that brightens every bite. For an extra sensory treat, a pat of melting butter on top of the mashed potatoes before the gravy works wonders too.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside something green, like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans, to balance the richness. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, providing a fresh counterpoint to the hearty main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on this classic, try layering the mashed potatoes and ground beef gravy in a small ramekin to create individual mini-pot pies without the crust. Or, scoop the potatoes into a cozy bowl and create a well in the center for the gravy—a visually pleasing and crave-worthy presentation that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the gravy and mashed potatoes separate if you want the best texture the next time you enjoy it.
Freezing
Both the mashed potatoes and the beef gravy freeze well if stored separately in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 2 months frozen. To avoid sogginess or texture changes, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems too thick. For mashed potatoes, reheat in the microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of butter or cream to bring back creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe, though it may produce a slightly lighter gravy in flavor. Adjust seasonings to taste to boost the richness.
Do I have to make mashed potatoes from scratch?
Not at all! Store-bought mashed potatoes work just fine for convenience. Just heat them thoroughly before serving and top with your homemade gravy for that classic comforting meal.
What can I add to the gravy for extra flavor?
You can stir in a splash of cream for richness or add herbs like thyme or rosemary while it simmers to infuse even more depth into your gravy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour as a thickener, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, swap the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the quantity slightly for thickness.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, this recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to use a larger pan for even cooking and adjust seasoning amounts to taste as you go.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those deeply satisfying comfort foods that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving some comfort on your own, it’s a perfect meal that reminds you home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite!
Print
Ground Beef Gravy with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Ground Beef Gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe features a rich beef gravy made from browned ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, thickened with a roux, and seasoned with Worcestershire sauce for deep flavor.
Ingredients
Beef Gravy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove any excess grease to ensure the gravy isn’t too oily.
- Sauté vegetables: Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Make the roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to form a thick paste that will help thicken the gravy.
- Add beef broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth gravy base.
- Season and simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the warm beef gravy generously over prepared mashed potatoes and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For extra richness, use homemade beef broth or quality store-bought broth.
- You can prepare mashed potatoes from scratch or use leftover mashed potatoes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or Worcestershire sauce if preferred.
- Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed.
