Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is a timeless comfort meal that tastes like home. Every bite brings together the savory richness of seasoned ground beef simmered in a silky brown gravy, spooned generously over a mountain of creamy mashed potatoes. It’s hearty, cozy, and simple—exactly the kind of meal that warms your soul after a long day.

This dish is proof that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving an old-fashioned homemade dinner, this recipe brings all the right feelings to the table. With just a few pantry staples—ground beef, onion, garlic, butter, and broth—you’ll create something deeply satisfying and full of flavor.

Inspiration Behind the Dish

Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is one of those old-fashioned dinners that never go out of style. It feels like something you’d find on a classic American dinner table in the 1950s—a simple, hearty plate meant to feed a hungry family. Growing up, many of us remember a version of this dish, whether it was “hamburger gravy,” “beef tips and mash,” or “poor man’s steak.” No matter the name, the essence is the same: comforting, budget-friendly, and full of homemade flavor.

It’s also a meal that encourages slowing down for a moment. The smell of onions sizzling in butter, the sight of gravy thickening in the pan, and that first spoonful over a bed of potatoes—everything about it feels comforting and nostalgic. It’s not fancy food—it’s family food.

Best Occasions for Serving

This dish fits beautifully into almost any mealtime moment:

• A weeknight dinner that everyone will actually look forward to.
• A Sunday supper where comfort and simplicity rule.
• A make-ahead meal that reheats wonderfully.
• A cozy option for cold, rainy evenings.
• A hearty, satisfying meal after a long day of work or errands.

Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes proves that sometimes, the best meals are the ones that bring comfort rather than complexity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pure comfort: Creamy mashed potatoes meet savory brown gravy—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven.
• Budget-friendly ingredients: Simple pantry staples combine to make a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Family-approved: A crowd-pleasing meal that both kids and adults love.
• Customizable: Works with ground turkey, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Perfect for leftovers: The flavors get even better the next day.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Course: Main

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Beef and Gravy

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

These are classic, approachable ingredients that come together to create big flavor. The combination of butter, flour, and broth forms the base of a smooth, rich gravy, while the ground beef adds texture and depth. The mashed potatoes bring the whole dish together, balancing the savory sauce with creamy, buttery comfort.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, gather the following:

• Large Pot – For boiling the potatoes.
• Large Skillet – To brown the beef and make the gravy.
• Mixing Bowl – For mashing and mixing the potatoes.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer – To get that creamy potato texture.
• Whisk – Essential for creating a lump-free gravy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy counts!
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring and breaking up the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork without them falling apart. Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water.

2. Mash the Potatoes

Transfer the hot potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add butter and milk (or heavy cream). Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding a splash more milk if needed. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl to keep them warm while you prepare the beef and gravy.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if your beef is very fatty.

4. Add Aromatics

Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. The mixture should smell savory and slightly sweet from the caramelized onion.

5. Make the Roux

Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. On the empty side, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour. Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux—a smooth paste that will thicken your gravy. The roux should be golden and smell nutty, not burnt.

6. Add the Broth and Seasoning

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. The sauce will begin to thicken as it simmers. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir everything together, then let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy is smooth, glossy, and thickened to your liking.

7. Assemble the Dish

Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate or into bowls. Ladle the beef and gravy mixture over top. For a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite.

Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with chopped mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Add vegetables: Stir in peas, carrots, or corn to make it a one-pan meal.
• Creamier potatoes: For extra rich mashed potatoes, add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese while mashing.
• Herb boost: Add a pinch of rosemary or parsley to the gravy for a fresh herbal note.
• Spice it up: For a bolder flavor, stir in a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or black pepper.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The flavor of this dish is deeply savory and satisfying. The beef gravy is rich, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, while the mashed potatoes offer a soft, velvety contrast. Together, they create a meal that’s hearty without being heavy.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans or buttered peas add a pop of color and freshness.
• Roasted carrots or glazed baby carrots provide sweetness that balances the savory gravy.
• Dinner rolls or buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up every drop of gravy.
• Simple garden salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.

Nutritional Overview (Estimated Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~28g
Carbohydrates	~36g
Fat	~29g
Fiber	~3g
Sodium	Moderate
Sugar	<3g

This meal provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. It’s filling enough to serve as a main dinner course and can easily be adjusted with leaner meats or lighter dairy for specific dietary goals.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep the potatoes early: You can boil and mash the potatoes a few hours in advance. Store them covered with plastic wrap and reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.
• Cook the beef and gravy ahead: The gravy actually deepens in flavor as it sits. Simply reheat it over medium-low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen it up.
• Freezer-friendly: Freeze the beef and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes for best texture.
• Meal prep portions: Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-heat lunches.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes offer better texture and flavor. If using instant, follow the package directions and adjust the liquid for desired creaminess.

Q2: What’s the best beef to use?
Regular ground beef (80/20) adds the most flavor, but lean ground beef (90/10) works if you prefer less fat.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients, using a larger skillet or pot to prevent crowding.

Q4: How do I keep gravy from becoming lumpy?
Add the broth gradually while whisking continuously. This ensures a smooth consistency.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based butter and unsweetened oat or almond milk for the mashed potatoes.

Q6: How long do leftovers last?
Stored properly, leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Task	Time
1	Boil potatoes	15 minutes
2	Mash potatoes	5 minutes
3	Brown beef and onions	7 minutes
4	Make roux and gravy	10 minutes
5	Assemble and serve	5 minutes
Total Time:		45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish family-style in a large shallow bowl, with mashed potatoes piled high and the rich beef gravy ladled over top. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even a drizzle of melted butter for an extra touch of indulgence. Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

Recipe Variations

1. Country-Style Beef & Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms while cooking the onions for earthy flavor.
2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a richer mash.
3. Smoky Bacon Beef Gravy: Add cooked crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for an irresistible smoky edge.
4. Garlic Herb Mash with Gravy: Mix roasted garlic and chopped parsley into the mashed potatoes for a gourmet twist.

Ingredient Spotlight: Potatoes & Ground Beef

Potatoes

For the fluffiest mashed potatoes, choose Yukon Gold or Russet varieties. Yukon Golds are naturally buttery and creamy, while Russets are light and fluffy. When selecting, look for firm, smooth potatoes with no green spots or sprouts. Store them in a cool, dark place—never the fridge—to prevent the starches from turning sweet.

Ground Beef

Choose fresh ground beef with a bright red color and a fine, even grind. If you prefer less grease, go with lean beef (90% lean or more). For maximum flavor, an 80/20 blend creates a juicier gravy and a richer overall dish.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Always brown your beef well. Proper browning creates deep flavor for your gravy base.
• Don’t rush the roux. Let it cook for at least a minute to remove any raw flour taste.
• Use warm milk in the potatoes. This helps them absorb the liquid smoothly without turning gluey.
• Season in layers. Taste as you go—season the potatoes, the beef, and the gravy individually.
• Let the gravy simmer gently. Boiling too hard can cause it to separate or become too thick.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the texture.

Freezer:

Freeze mashed potatoes and beef gravy in separate containers for up to 2 months.

• To reheat mashed potatoes: Thaw overnight, then warm on the stove or microwave with added milk or butter.
• To reheat beef and gravy: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Avoid freezing mashed potatoes made with high cream content, as they can separate when thawed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Protein	28g
Total Fat	29g
Saturated Fat	13g
Carbohydrates	36g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	2g
Sodium	680mg
Cholesterol	115mg

Dietary Notes:

• Contains dairy and gluten.
• Nut-free.
• Can be made gluten-free with a GF flour substitute and dairy-free with plant-based swaps.

Expanded Conclusion

There’s something timeless about a plate of Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a reminder of the simple, satisfying food that brings families together. With minimal ingredients, easy steps, and that signature homemade touch, this dish delivers warmth and flavor every time you make it.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you need a little comfort on a cold day. And best of all, it’s the kind of recipe that welcomes your own personal twist—add vegetables, swap proteins, or make it your own. However you serve it, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot.

So grab your skillet, whip up those mashed potatoes, and let this classic comfort meal find a place on your dinner table. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

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