Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes 🍛🥔
Description
Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of a classic home-cooked meal. Our Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food, delivering a warm, satisfying experience in every bite. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of a hearty beef gravy with the creamy, smooth texture of perfectly mashed potatoes. It’s a timeless recipe that’s sure to bring a sense of calm and contentment to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a relaxing meal for one.
Ingredients Overview
For the Ground Beef Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option, but any variety will work well.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: Provides a rich, savory base for the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon thyme (optional): Enhances the flavor with a subtle herbal note.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds color and nutrition, making the dish more wholesome.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but you can use any milk you like.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds a silky, buttery finish to the potatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the potatoes perfectly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the peeled and quartered potatoes with water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Cook Until Tender: Reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and set aside to keep the potatoes warm.
2️⃣ Cook Ground Beef:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Aromatics: Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Make Gravy:
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef and onions. Stir to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Season: Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Gravy: Let the gravy cook and thicken for about 5 minutes. If using, add the frozen peas and carrots and cook until they are heated through.
4️⃣ Serve:
- Plate the Dish: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls.
- Top with Gravy: Generously ladle the hearty ground beef gravy over the mashed potatoes.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Cooking Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their higher starch content, which yields a creamier texture.
- Season the Potatoes: Don’t forget to salt the water when boiling the potatoes for added flavor.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them gently with a bit of extra milk to restore their creaminess.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the mashed potatoes for an extra rich flavor.
- Thicken the Gravy: If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes separately. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the best texture, add a little milk to the mashed potatoes before reheating and stir occasionally while heating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the gravy? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as substitutes for ground beef. Adjust the seasonings to complement the meat you choose.
Q: How can I make the mashed potatoes dairy-free? A: Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the gravy? A: Yes, feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans make excellent additions.
Q: How do I prevent lumps in my gravy? A: To avoid lumps, ensure you sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat and stir constantly as you gradually add the beef broth. Using a whisk can help achieve a smoother consistency.
Q: What is the best way to reheat mashed potatoes without drying them out? A: Reheat mashed potatoes over low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk and stirring frequently. You can also reheat them in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Embrace the calm and comfort of a homemade meal with our Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. With these tips and instructions, you’ll achieve culinary perfection every time. Happy cooking
