If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines perfectly browned ground beef with rich, savory gravy, all spooned generously over creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. This classic dish is simple to make but delivers big on flavor and satisfaction, a true family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a comforting crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe, you don’t need a dozen fancy ingredients—just a handful of essentials that come together beautifully. Each one plays a key role, from the rich, juicy beef to the creamy potatoes, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that brings hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a gentle aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
- 1 packet brown gravy mix: The shortcut that makes the sauce perfectly thick and savory in minutes.
- 2 cups water: Essential for preparing the gravy mix to just the right consistency.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced: The base of the creamy mashed potatoes, delivering smoothness and comfort.
- 1/4 cup butter: Creates rich creaminess that melts into the potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and silky softness to the mash.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Critical for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the meat well adds flavor and texture that will shine through in every bite of this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once your beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cooking them until soft and fragrant blends their sweet and savory notes into the beef, setting a delicious foundation for the gravy.
Step 3: Prepare and Add the Gravy
Next, whisk together your brown gravy mix with 2 cups of water according to the package instructions. Pour this gravy over the beef and onions in the skillet. This step transforms your beef into a luscious, flavorful stew that’s the heart of the dish.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened
Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the gravy thickens to a rich consistency. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth and prevent sticking, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Boil and Mash the Potatoes
While the gravy simmers, boil your diced potatoes in salted water until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water, then mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until they reach a creamy, dreamy texture that perfectly balances the savory beef and gravy.
Step 6: Build the Classic Plate
Now for the best part: spoon the warm, thickened beef and gravy over a generous bed of your creamy mashed potatoes. This classic combo is everything you want in a comfort meal and more, making this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe a guaranteed family favorite.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and a subtle fresh note, lifting the dish visually and flavor-wise. A little cracked black pepper on top can also enhance the aroma and give that final hint of spice.
Side Dishes
To round out this meal, serve with simple steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans. Their crisp texture contrasts nicely with the soft potatoes and saucy beef. A fresh garden salad or buttery dinner rolls also complement the heartiness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating this dish in individual bowls or shallow plates for a cozy, rustic feel. For a fun twist, turn this into a casserole by layering mashed potatoes and beef gravy, then baking until golden and bubbly on top—a great way to serve for potlucks or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the gravy and potatoes together maintains their comforting flavors but be sure to reheat thoroughly.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, especially the beef and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes. Place each in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months for a quick, ready-made meal on busy days. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly. Adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes while reheating can bring back their creamy texture, making the dish taste freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative, though the flavor will be milder. You might want to adjust seasonings to boost the taste when using lighter meats.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the brown gravy mix for a gluten-free gravy mix or make homemade gravy using cornstarch instead of flour. This way, you keep the rich texture without gluten concerns.
Can I add vegetables to the beef and gravy?
Yes! Diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms are wonderful additions cooked along with the onions and garlic. They add extra flavor, color, and nutrition to the dish.
What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best for a creamy, fluffy texture. Yukon golds have a natural buttery flavor that’s especially delicious for this recipe.
Is it possible to make the mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Definitely. Use a plant-based butter and milk substitute like almond or oat milk to keep the mash creamy while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a heartwarming classic that never fails to satisfy. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps deliver a rich, comforting meal filled with love and flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become one of your go-to comfort foods.
Print
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe combines flavorful browned beef and savory onion gravy served atop creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting and straightforward meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef and Gravy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 2 cups water
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking until the onion is softened and translucent, releasing aromatic flavors.
- Make the gravy: Prepare the brown gravy mix by combining it with 2 cups of water according to package directions, then pour the resulting gravy over the beef and onion mixture in the skillet.
- Simmer for thickness: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens and coats the beef nicely.
- Cook and mash the potatoes: While the gravy simmers, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain. Mash the potatoes with 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 cup milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste for a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Plate a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and spoon the savory ground beef and gravy mixture over the top. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute milk with cream or a dairy-free alternative for creamier mashed potatoes.
- Add herbs like parsley or thyme to the gravy for extra flavor.
- For a thicker gravy, use slightly less water when preparing the gravy mix.
- Use russet potatoes for fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated well the next day.
