Description
A comforting and hearty American classic, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes features savory beef cooked with onions and garlic, smothered in a rich homemade gravy, and served atop creamy mashed potatoes. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be customized with optional herbs or cream for extra richness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef and Gravy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
To Serve
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, approximately 6 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to prevent a greasy sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Prepare the Roux: Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and cook while stirring continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden. This forms the base of the gravy.
- Make the Gravy: Gradually whisk in the beef broth to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if using. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the hot beef and gravy mixture over prepared mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a creamier gravy, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- This dish also pairs well with rice or buttered noodles instead of mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days and reheated gently.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy thickener.
