Willie ReganBefore diving into the deliciousness of ground beef and gravy mashed potatoes, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside this hearty dish. Some scrumptious options include:
Steamed Green Beans, Dinner Rolls, or Coleslaw. Now, on to the main event!
Why This Recipe Works
1. Simplicity Meets Flavor
This dish brings the best of both worlds. Ground beef is affordable and easy to work with. When combined with gravy, it creates a flavor explosion. It’s like a hug for your taste buds.
2. Versatile Ingredients
The basic components are pantry staples. Potatoes and ground beef can be transformed in countless ways. Swap in seasonings or veggies you have on hand. This flexibility ensures that you can adapt the recipe based on your family’s preferences.
3. Comfort Factor
Mashed potatoes are, without a doubt, one of the ultimate comfort foods. When you pour savory gravy over them, it’s like a ticket to culinary bliss. This dish hits you right in the feels and belly.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Dish
This recipe is not just for family dinners. It works for gatherings, potlucks, or just because you want to cheer someone up. Everyone appreciates a warm plate of beefy goodness. It brings smiles to the table with every bite.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine diving into a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes smothered in a rich, savory gravy, while tender bits of ground beef add a satisfying chew.
Each forkful offers a balance of creamy, meaty, and slightly salty flavors. If you like some depth, a hint of smoked paprika elevates the profile even more. Pair this with a glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea, and you’re set.
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Ground Beef and Gravy Mashed Potatoes Variations?
Many recipes stick to traditional flavors, but this one allows creativity. The optional spices like smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce add an unexpected twist without flipping the script.
Most variations lean on simplicity, but mine appreciates the nuances that elevate it—without complicating the process.
The Ingredients
Let’s check out what you’ll need. This list is pretty straightforward:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Water: For boiling.
- ½ teaspoon salt: More for taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper: To your liking.
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Handles creamy textures beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness.
- ½ cup whole milk: For enhanced creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Optional, but adds depth.
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose your preferred fat content for flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust as needed.
- ¼–½ teaspoon smoked paprika: For gourmet undertones, optional.
- 1 small onion: Finely chopped for sweetness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Deepens the savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: For thickening the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Optional, for umami richness.
Instructions
Ready to cook? Let’s get down to business.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cutting your potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Place them in a pot filled with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, which is usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained potatoes. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash until smooth. Mix in the butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add chopped onion halfway through cooking. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
Sprinkle salt and smoked paprika over the beef. Pour in 1½ cups of beef broth. Stir well, then bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining ½ cup broth to form a slurry. Gradually add this to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, around 2-3 minutes. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add it now.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates, topping with the rich beef gravy. Dig in and enjoy!
Notes
Here are some handy tips to get the best results:
- Use Yukon Golds: They make creamier mashed potatoes than russets.
- Don’t Skimp on the Butter: It’s a flavor booster.
- Try Mixing in Sour Cream: For extra creaminess and tang.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning based on your preferences. It makes a difference!
- Use High-Quality Beef Broth: This elevates the gravy for maximum flavor.
Nutrition Information
For a generous serving:
- Calories: Approximately 480 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Of course, exact numbers will vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
How Do You Store This Ground Beef and Gravy Mashed Potatoes?
Storing leftovers is simple. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep the potatoes creamy.
Conclusion
Ground beef and gravy mashed potatoes are more than just food; they embody warmth, comfort, and simplicity. This recipe is easy to whip up, allowing you to create a nourishing meal that brings the family together.
It’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have in your kitchen, and it’s guaranteed to please any crowd.
Now, grab a plate, a fork, and dig into the coziness of this dish. Happy cooking!
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Ground Beef And Gravy Mashed Potatoes Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by peeling and cutting your potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Place them in a pot filled with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, which is usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained potatoes. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash until smooth. Mix in the butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add chopped onion halfway through cooking. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sprinkle salt and smoked paprika over the beef. Pour in 1½ cups of beef broth. Stir well, then bring to a simmer.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining ½ cup broth to form a slurry. Gradually add this to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, around 2-3 minutes. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add it now.
- Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates, topping with the rich beef gravy. Dig in and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Yukon Golds: They make creamier mashed potatoes than russets.
- Don’t Skimp on the Butter: It’s a flavor booster.
- Try Mixing in Sour Cream: For extra creaminess and tang.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning based on your preferences. It makes a difference!
- Use High-Quality Beef Broth: This elevates the gravy for maximum flavor.
