Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening the gravy)
• 2 cups beef broth (or stock)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for Making Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. If you prefer creamier potatoes, add more milk or a bit of cream.
3. Set Aside: Keep the mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the ground beef and gravy.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Make the Gravy

1. Sauté the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Beef Broth: Slowly add the beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let the gravy thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

Step 3: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. Top with Ground Beef and Gravy: Pour the ground beef and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes, making sure to cover them evenly.
3. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or additional cracked black pepper for added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:

1. Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thin, continue simmering it to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to adjust the consistency.
2. Add Vegetables: For a more hearty meal, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the beef and gravy mixture.
3. Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers. Store the beef and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes in an airtight container, and reheat when ready to serve.
4. Customize the Flavor: You can adjust the seasoning in the gravy to suit your taste—add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Variations:

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor and creaminess.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
• Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for a more earthy, savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. The rich, savory gravy with tender ground beef pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, making this dish hearty and satisfying. It’s simple to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a comforting meal at home. Enjoy every savory bite!