If you are craving a comforting, hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, fluffy mashed potatoes topped with savory ground beef smothered in a rich, homemade gravy, creating a classic combination that never goes out of style. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is always met with smiles and satisfied appetites, making it a timeless favorite that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty russet potatoes to the fragrant herbs, every component is straightforward but essential for creating the perfect Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe.

1 pound ground beef: The base for the savory filling, providing richness and protein.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle aromatic kick without overpowering.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the gravy to that velvety consistency we love.
2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that turns this into a luscious gravy.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and a hint of tang.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note to the gravy.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The secret to creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
½ cup milk (or more as needed): Creates the smooth texture in the mash.
¼ cup butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the potatoes.

How to Make Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by placing your peeled and cubed potatoes into a saucepan filled with cold water. This step ensures even cooking from the inside out. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then lower to a simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the warm pan. Add milk and butter, mashing everything until you reach your desired smoothness. Don’t hesitate to add a bit more milk here if you want them creamier. Season with salt and pepper and keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the potatoes are simmering, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Brown the beef by breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. When the meat is nicely browned, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for about 5 minutes until the onions have softened and become translucent, creating a fragrant, savory base for your gravy.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour evenly over your beef mixture and give it a good stir to coat everything. Cooking the flour for a minute or two eliminates any raw taste and starts to thicken the mixture. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Next, add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, which bring a complex depth to the gravy. Let it all simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Now for the best part: spoon your warm, fluffy mashed potatoes onto individual plates and generously top with the luscious ground beef and gravy mixture. This classic combination is sure to impress whether you’re serving a casual family meal or welcoming guests to the table.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and a touch of herbal brightness that complements the rich gravy beautifully. If you want to jazz it up a bit, a small dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of shredded cheddar can also work wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but adding a crisp side salad or steamed green beans can provide a refreshing contrast. Roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms also pair nicely, bringing additional textures and vibrant colors to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this recipe in individual ramekins layered with mashed potatoes, beef, and gravy, then broil briefly to create a golden crust on top. Alternatively, use mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, charming presentation that keeps everything warm right at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. The mashed potatoes and gravy keep best when separated if possible, which helps maintain their individual textures.

Freezing

You can freeze both the mashed potatoes and the beef and gravy mixture for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes and a bit of broth or water to the gravy if they seem too thick after chilling. This helps revive their creamy consistency and full flavor.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind turkey tends to cook faster and can dry out, so watch the cooking time carefully and consider adding a bit more broth for moisture.

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and create fluffy mashed potatoes. Yukon Golds also work nicely if you prefer a creamier, buttery texture.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

If your gravy is too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of flour with a little cold water to make a slurry and stir it in while simmering. Continue cooking until it reaches the consistency you want.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute butter with vegan margarine or olive oil. The taste will still be delicious and comforting.

Can I add vegetables to the beef and gravy?

Definitely. Adding diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms when cooking the onions will boost both flavor and nutrition, making this an even heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those classic dishes that will always bring comfort and satisfaction to your table. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress anyone you’re cooking for. I can’t wait for you to make this and experience the cozy flavors that have made it a favorite for generations.

Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.1 from 47 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A comforting and hearty recipe featuring savory ground beef cooked in a rich thyme-infused gravy, served over creamy homemade mashed potatoes. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner or cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef and Gravy

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mashed Potatoes

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup milk (or more as needed)
¼ cup butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water to start cooking evenly.
Cook Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15–20 minutes.
Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the saucepan. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth, adjusting milk quantity to reach your preferred consistency.
Season Potatoes: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Keep them warm while preparing the beef.
Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up continuously as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Continue cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and help thicken the gravy later.
Incorporate Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps, creating a smooth gravy base.
Season Gravy: Stir in Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Mix well to infuse flavor throughout the gravy.
Simmer and Thicken: Let the gravy simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until it thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous helping of mashed potatoes onto each plate, then top with the savory ground beef and gravy mixture.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

For creamier mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk.
For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or caramelized onions to the beef mixture.
If you prefer thicker gravy, cook it down a little longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
This dish pairs well with steamed green vegetables or a side salad.
Leftover mashed potatoes and beef gravy can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American