Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes – A Cozy, Budget-Friendly Meal That Feels Like a Hug in a Bowl

Introduction

This Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s warm, savory, and deeply satisfying—featuring seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich brown gravy, ladled generously over creamy mashed potatoes.

Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or craving something nostalgic and soul-soothing, this dish delivers. It’s simple to make, uses pantry staples, and tastes like something straight out of grandma’s kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize and scale up for gatherings or leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Beef & Gravy

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

3 cups mashed potatoes (or 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed)
¼ cup butter
½ cup milk or heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

½ tsp garlic powder or onion powder
1 cup frozen peas or carrots
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for cheesy mash)
Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Boil peeled, cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
Drain and return to pot.
Mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Push beef mixture to one side of the skillet.
Melt butter in the empty side, then whisk in flour to form a roux.
Cook for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir everything together.

Step 5: Simmer & Season

Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened to your liking.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates or bowls.
Ladle beef and gravy over the top.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Success

Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier mash.
Don’t overwork the potatoes—mash just until smooth.
Let the roux cook fully to avoid a floury taste.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Make ahead: Gravy and mash can be prepped and reheated easily.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach.
Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up extra gravy.
Add a side salad with vinaigrette for freshness.
Offer hot sauce or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Variations to Try

Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms with the onions.
Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles and veggie broth.
Southern Style: Add a splash of cream to the gravy and serve with biscuits.
Loaded Mash: Stir in cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
Shepherd’s Pie Twist: Bake the beef and gravy under a layer of mashed potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freeze gravy separately for up to 2 months.
Reheat mashed potatoes with a splash of milk; warm gravy on the stovetop.

Behind the Recipe

This dish is rooted in Depression-era cooking—simple, affordable, and deeply comforting. It’s been passed down through generations as a staple of family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in. The combination of creamy potatoes and savory gravy is timeless, and the flexibility of the recipe makes it a reliable favorite.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is hearty, flavorful, and easy to love. With its rich gravy, tender beef, and creamy mash, it’s a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ground Beef and Gravy with Mashed Potatoes