This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The dish consists of tender mashed potatoes topped with a savory beef gravy, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table. The ground beef is simmered with onions, garlic, and beef broth, creating a flavorful base for the gravy. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes and optional vegetables like peas and carrots, this dish brings a wholesome and filling experience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe offers both simplicity and deliciousness.

The combination of tender mashed potatoes and savory beef gravy is a classic pairing that never goes out of style. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients, you can prepare this comforting meal in no time. Whether you make it with or without the vegetables, it’s a meal that’s both versatile and crowd-pleasing. From the richness of the beef gravy to the smoothness of the mashed potatoes, every bite is a reminder of the joys of home-cooked meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Comforting

This dish is the ultimate comfort food that offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. The creamy mashed potatoes paired with savory beef gravy create a meal that fills you up and leaves you content.

2. Quick and Easy

Despite its comforting and indulgent nature, this recipe is simple to make and can be ready in less than an hour. It’s a great option for busy weeknights.

3. Customizable Ingredients

You can easily modify this recipe based on what you have at home. Whether you want to add vegetables like peas and carrots or adjust the seasonings, this recipe is highly versatile.

4. Family-Friendly

This dish is sure to be a hit with all ages. The mild flavor of the beef gravy and the creamy potatoes appeal to both kids and adults alike.

5. Budget-Friendly

Using ground beef as the base for the gravy keeps the cost of this meal relatively low while still delivering a filling and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Ground beef for the gravy
Medium onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
All-purpose flour for thickening
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Thyme (optional)
Frozen peas and carrots (optional)
Potatoes, peeled and quartered
Milk for mashed potatoes
Butter for mashed potatoes
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based protein such as lentils or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef gravy for a spicier flavor profile.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
Different Vegetables: If you don’t have peas and carrots, try adding corn, green beans, or mushrooms for variety in the dish.
Gravy with a Richer Flavor: Use a combination of beef and chicken broth to add depth and complexity to the gravy.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Mash the potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper to your desired texture. Set aside, keeping them warm.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove any excess fat.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme (if using). Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.

Step 6: Add Vegetables (Optional)

If you’re using peas and carrots or other vegetables, add them to the gravy during the last few minutes of simmering. Stir well.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates and generously top with the beef gravy mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure the potatoes are well-drained after boiling to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
For a smoother mashed potato texture, use a potato ricer instead of a traditional masher.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer, adding a little more flour if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
Use a high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme will work just fine—just use half the amount.

How to Serve

Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes as a standalone meal or pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. It also pairs well with warm bread or rolls for dipping into the savory gravy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore the consistency of the gravy.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the mashed potatoes and gravy to cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes and gravy in separate pans on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra liquid as needed to bring back the creamy texture of the potatoes and the smoothness of the gravy.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. However, it may lack some of the richness that beef provides.

2. Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat with a bit of milk or butter before serving.

3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?

Definitely! Fresh peas and carrots can be used, but make sure they’re cooked through before adding them to the gravy.

4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

While fresh mashed potatoes will provide the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch.

5. Is it possible to make this dish without flour for thickening?

Yes, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a gluten-free alternative for thickening the gravy.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chili powder to the gravy for a spicy kick.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works as a great substitute for a lighter, vegetarian version of the gravy.

8. Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms can add a rich, earthy flavor to the gravy.

9. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker to simmer on low for a few hours.

10. Can I freeze the mashed potatoes separately?

Yes, mashed potatoes freeze well on their own. Just ensure they are tightly sealed in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food that brings together tender potatoes and a savory beef gravy in the most satisfying way. This dish is simple, versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any weeknight meal or family gathering. With the option to add vegetables, make it spicier, or even use different kinds of meat, the possibilities are endless. Make it ahead, store leftovers, or freeze it for future meals—this recipe is as convenient as it is delicious.