If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and budget-friendly meal, this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers pure comfort in every bite. With savory beef, rich homemade gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish feels like a big, satisfying hug — the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Best of all? It’s made with simple pantry staples and ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🥩 Simple and satisfying: A down-home classic made with easy ingredients.
🥔 One-pan ease: The beef and gravy come together quickly in a single skillet.
🕒 Weeknight-friendly: Ready in 45 minutes or less.
🍽️ Family-approved: Comfort food that everyone will love — even picky eaters!
Ingredients You’ll Need
🥔 For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🥩 For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Optional) 1 cup frozen peas and carrots for a pop of color and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
- Add a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until tender — about 20 minutes.
- Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm while you make the gravy.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Make the Gravy
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir for about 2 minutes — this helps thicken the gravy.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly and scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- If you’re adding peas and carrots, stir them in now and cook until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon generous portions of mashed potatoes onto plates or into bowls.
- Ladle the savory beef and gravy over top.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like — and serve hot!
It’s simple, hearty, and deeply comforting — the perfect meal after a long day.
Tips for Success
💡 Choose the right potato: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make the creamiest mash.
💡 Don’t skip the flour: It’s key for a thick, rich gravy that clings perfectly to the beef.
💡 Boost the flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of dried thyme for extra depth.
💡 Make it creamy: For ultra-rich potatoes, replace half the milk with heavy cream.
Variations to Try
- Mushroom twist: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy, savory upgrade.
- Cheesy mash: Stir shredded cheddar or Parmesan into your mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable boost: Mix in green beans, corn, or sautéed spinach for more texture and nutrition.
- Shepherd’s pie style: Spoon the beef and gravy into a casserole dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until golden.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months — a great meal-prep option!
Why It Works
This recipe balances savory beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich, silky gravy — all from a handful of everyday ingredients. It’s the kind of food that fills both your stomach and your soul. No fancy techniques, just classic comfort done right.
Whether it’s a cold evening, a family gathering, or just a “need-something-hearty” night, Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes hits all the right notes — nostalgic, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. 🥄💛
