If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re going to fall in love with this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes paired with rich, savory beef gravy that turns simple ingredients into a dinner favorite. Whether you’re feeding a family or seeking a fulfilling meal after a busy day, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy those comfort food cravings and invite smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is simple yet essential to creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the creamy softness of Yukon Gold potatoes to the robust savoriness of ground beef and beef broth, each component plays a key role in building this delicious dish.
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes: Yukon Golds add a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, making your mashed potatoes irresistible.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the potatoes, but feel free to swap for vegan butter if you prefer dairy-free.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Helps create a luscious, creamy mash; use non-dairy milk if you’re keeping it plant-based.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: The star protein of this dish, offering bold flavor and a hearty bite; ground turkey or chicken can work too.
- 1 cup Beef Broth: Builds the base of the savory gravy; adjust the amount for your preferred gravy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: A fantastic umami booster that deepens the gravy’s flavor; soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be substituted if needed.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the seasoning.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling your Yukon Gold or red potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and mash with butter and milk until your potatoes are incredibly creamy and smooth. This is the plush bed where your savory ground beef and gravy will shine.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Let it cook evenly for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking it up as it browns to achieve that rich, appetizing color and texture. Fully cooking the beef at this stage means every bite will be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Create the Gravy
Drain any excess fat from your cooked beef to keep the gravy luscious but not greasy. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, season the mixture with salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for about five minutes. This simmering allows the liquid to reduce and thicken into a rich, velvety gravy that perfectly coats the beef.
Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
Now comes the fun part. Spoon a generous serving of your creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate, then ladle the warm, savory ground beef and gravy right on top. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness if you like.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a beautiful burst of green and a light herbal note that complements the richness of this dish. If you like a little extra texture, a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or chopped scallions can bring a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad. These fresh veggies and greens add brightness and balance out the warmth and heaviness of the mashed potatoes and beef gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this classic meal into a stylish plate by using ring molds to shape your mashed potatoes into neat towers before spooning the ground beef and gravy on top. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large casserole dish for a cozy, communal feel that invites gathering around the table with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the mashed potatoes and ground beef gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor for up to three days, so each part remains delicious when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze both components, but for best results, freeze the ground beef and gravy in a sealed container and the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain their quality.
Reheating
Gently reheat the mashed potatoes on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk or butter if they seem dry. Warm the beef and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Combining them right before serving ensures the freshest taste and best texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are ideal for their buttery texture, Russets or red potatoes can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version that still delivers great taste.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering gravy. It will thicken quickly—just be sure to cook it for a minute or two afterward to remove any starchy taste.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare both mashed potatoes and ground beef gravy up to a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat just before serving for a quick and easy meal.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar are good substitutes that will still add a depth of flavor to your gravy.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe has a special way of bringing comfort, warmth, and satisfaction to any meal. It’s not just food—it’s a celebration of simple, classic flavors that feel like home. Give it a try tonight and watch how it instantly becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Print
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty meal featuring savory ground beef gravy served over creamy mashed Yukon Gold or red potatoes, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes (Choose Yukon Gold for a buttery texture)
- 4 tablespoons Butter (Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup Milk (Non-dairy milk works too!)
For the Ground Beef Gravy
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes)
- 1 cup Beef Broth (Adjust the amount to reach your desired consistency)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Boil the Yukon Gold or red potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes well, then mash them with butter and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Brown Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook the beef for 7-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Create Gravy: Drain any excess fat from the cooked ground beef. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly.
- Serve It Up: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto serving plates, then ladle the savory ground beef gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for added color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and a plant-based milk alternative.
- Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less beef broth as desired.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
