A hearty and satisfying dish, this recipe combines a rich, savory ground beef gravy with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this comfort food classic is perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering. Here’s everything you need to make this dish extra special, step by step.

Detailed Ingredients

For the Gravy:

• 1 pound ground beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, or ground chuck for extra flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic kick.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the gravy.
• 2 cups beef broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt level.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami-rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon thyme (optional): Fresh or dried thyme enhances the overall flavor with an earthy touch.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): For added texture, color, and nutritional value.
• Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste, depending on your broth and personal preference.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy mashed potatoes.
• 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk creates a richer texture, but you can use any milk or even cream.
• 1/4 cup butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, so you can control the seasoning.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to bring out the flavors of the potatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peeling and Cooking:
   • Peel and quarter 2 pounds of potatoes for even cooking.
   • Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a generous pinch of salt.
   • Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces through the potatoes.
2. Draining and Mashing:
   • Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
   • Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer while still hot.
3. Adding Milk and Butter:
   • Gradually mix in 1/2 cup of warm milk and 1/4 cup melted butter until smooth and creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm while preparing the gravy.

2. Make the Ground Beef Gravy

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until no longer pink. This takes about 6-8 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside in the skillet.
2. Add Aromatics:
   • Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Thicken the Gravy:
   • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour evenly over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat everything and cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add Liquid and Flavoring:
   • Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Gravy:
   • Lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
   • For extra flavor and nutrition, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Serve the Dish

1. Plating:
   • Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate or into a bowl.
   • Ladle the ground beef gravy over the mashed potatoes, ensuring each serving is rich and saucy.
2. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

1. Mashed Potatoes Texture:
   • For smoother mashed potatoes, pass them through a potato ricer before mixing with milk and butter.
   • Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
2. Gravy Consistency:
   • If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of beef broth.
   • If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce slightly.
3. Meal Prep:
   • Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat with a splash of milk to keep them creamy.
   • The gravy can also be made in advance and reheated gently over low heat.
4. Custom Add-Ins:
   • Add mushrooms for a hearty twist or diced bell peppers for extra sweetness.
   • Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with:
  • Green Beans Almondine
  • Honey-Glazed Carrots
  • Homemade Dinner Rolls
• Drink Pairings:
  • A glass of red wine (like Merlot or Syrah).
  • Iced tea or a classic ginger ale for a non-alcoholic option.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g

Enjoy this comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!