Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Description:

This simple yet flavorful dish features savory seasoned ground beef in a rich, brown onion gravy, served generously over creamy mashed potatoes (or rice or toast). It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, using pantry staples and delivering classic comfort food vibes in every bite.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

For the Beef and Gravy:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 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 tsp soy sauce (optional for depth)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• 1 tbsp oil or butter (for sautéing)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup frozen peas or mushrooms

• 1 tsp thyme or parsley for garnish

To Serve:

• Mashed potatoes, cooked rice, egg noodles, or buttered toast

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
   Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Flour:
   Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

4. Make the Gravy:
   Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), pepper, salt, and paprika.

5. Simmer:
   Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gravy thickens to desired consistency. Stir in peas or mushrooms if using.

6. Serve:
   Spoon hot beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, toast, or noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes:

• Adjust the salt depending on your broth and soy sauce.

• For richer flavor, substitute ½ cup of broth with cream or milk.

• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance flavors if the gravy tastes too savory.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully and make a great next-day lunch.

Tips:

• Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time for quicker prep.

• Use pre-minced garlic or onion powder if short on time.

• For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free broth.

• Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to make it a complete meal in one pan.

Servings:

Serves 4 hearty portions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):

• Calories: ~380

• Protein: 23g

• Carbs: 18g (without mashed potatoes)

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: ~680mg

(Add about 150–250 calories if served with mashed potatoes or rice.)

Health Benefits:

• Protein-Rich: Supports muscle health and keeps you full longer.

• Iron & Zinc: Good source of key minerals from beef.

• Comfort Meal: Satisfies cravings and offers a warm, cozy meal.

• Flexible: Easily customizable to dietary needs.

Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats easily on the stovetop or microwave.

Q: What’s the best base to serve it on?
A: Mashed potatoes are classic, but rice, egg noodles, or toast work great.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze the beef and gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
A: Absolutely! Just note that they are leaner, so add a splash of oil or butter for flavor.