Savor the Comfort of Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Comfort food has a way of nourishing the soul, and when it comes to classic, heartwarming dishes, few can rival the simple pleasures of “Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes.” This timeless meal is a beloved staple in many households, offering a comforting and satisfying dining experience that brings family and friends together.

At the heart of this dish are the mouthwatering combination of tender ground beef, savory gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes – a trifecta of flavors that instantly evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as a cozy weekend dinner, this comfort food favorite is a true culinary delight that’s sure to leave you feeling nourished and content.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need a few simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to form a harmonious blend of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that make this meal so irresistible:

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup milk
• 6 tbsp butter
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Beef Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 beef bouillon cube
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best choices for making the mashed potatoes in this dish. Yukon Golds have a creamy, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the rich gravy, while Russets offer a fluffy, starchy base that absorbs the flavors seamlessly.

The ground beef and aromatic ingredients like onions and garlic create a savory, well-seasoned gravy that complements the mashed potatoes perfectly. With the addition of Worcestershire sauce, beef bouillon, and a blend of spices, the gravy becomes a true flavor powerhouse.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

The foundation of this dish, the mashed potatoes, is where the magic begins. To achieve the perfect creamy and smooth texture, follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot, add the chopped potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

2. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 10 minutes.

3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they are creamy and smooth.

4. Cover the mashed potatoes and keep them warm while you prepare the beef gravy.

Creating the Savory Beef Gravy

The key to a delightful beef gravy lies in the careful execution of a few simple steps. Follow along as we guide you through the process:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flour to coat the meat and create a roux.

4. Slowly pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

6. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serving the Perfect Comfort Meal

Now that you’ve mastered the mashed potatoes and the savory beef gravy, it’s time to assemble this comforting dish. Here’s how to serve it:

1. Scoop a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.

2. Ladle the rich and flavorful beef gravy over the top of the mashed potatoes.

3. Serve the ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes immediately, allowing the warmth and aromas to entice your senses.

This dish is the epitome of comfort food, with the mashed potatoes providing a soft, velvety base and the savory gravy adding a delightful layer of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or sharing it with friends, this classic meal is sure to bring everyone together and leave them feeling satisfied and content.

Customizing Your Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

While the recipe above is a tried-and-true classic, there are plenty of ways to personalize and customize this dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions:

Adding Vegetables:

For an extra boost of nutrition and flavor, you can easily incorporate vegetables into the gravy. Some delicious options include peas, carrots, or even diced mushrooms. Simply sauté the veggies along with the onions and ground beef, then incorporate them into the gravy.

Lighter Alternatives:

To create a lighter version of this dish, you can use low-fat milk and butter in the mashed potatoes, and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the gravy. This helps reduce the overall fat and calorie content without sacrificing the comforting flavors.

Dietary Restrictions:

For those with dietary restrictions, the mashed potatoes can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and butter alternatives. The gravy can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour or cornstarch. With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy this classic dish while accommodating your dietary needs.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
• Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Skillet

FAQs About Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

What type of potatoes are best for making mashed potatoes for this dish?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best choices for making mashed potatoes for ground beef and gravy. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and a buttery flavor, which enhances the overall dish. Russet potatoes, on the other hand, are starchy and fluffy, making them easy to mash and perfect for a smooth consistency. Both types deliver delicious results, so you can choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. To do this, brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the garlic, flour, beef broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For the mashed potatoes, you can prepare them separately on the stovetop or use a slow cooker to keep them warm while the gravy cooks. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Additionally, ensure that the beef broth and bouillon cube you use are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. The mashed potatoes can remain gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients for milk and butter. This way, you can still enjoy this comforting dish without the gluten.

What are some good side dishes to serve with ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes?

Some excellent side dishes to serve with ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes include steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots, which add color and nutrition. A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving cornbread or a crusty bread roll to soak up the gravy. These sides complement the meal beautifully and enhance the overall dining experience.

Embrace the comforting flavors of “Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes” and create a memorable meal that brings family and friends together. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own personal touches, this timeless dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

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