Ground Beef Recipes With Potatoes And Gravy

Name: Ground Beef Recipes With Potatoes And Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Delights

I absolutely love this hearty dish that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich gravy. It brings together comfort and flavor in a way that feels so satisfying. The savory aroma wafting through the kitchen is just unbeatable! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, as it comes together quickly while delivering that homemade touch we crave. Once you try it, you'll understand why this has become one of my go-to meals during the chillier months.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:04:15.653Z

When I first tried making this recipe, I wanted to find a way to elevate a simple ground beef dish. The key was to layer the flavors and let the gravy simmer for a richer taste. I discovered that browning the beef thoroughly before adding aromatics makes a significant difference!

I love serving this meal over mashed potatoes, letting the creamy texture absorb all the delicious gravy. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving gave a beautiful pop of color and freshness that made it all the more appealing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef paired with tender potatoes creates a satisfying meal.
Rich, flavorful gravy elevates the dish, making it feel special.
Easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

The mashed potatoes in this dish are key to achieving that comforting base. When cooking the potatoes, make sure to start them in cold water. This helps ensure they cook evenly, preventing any gummy texture. After about 15 minutes of boiling, a good test is to pierce a potato cube with a fork; it should glide through easily. Be sure to drain them well to avoid watery mash, then mix in butter and milk until you reach that creamy, dreamy consistency.

For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or sour cream instead of milk when mashing. This will add a delicious tang and creaminess that elevates the dish. If you prefer a bit of texture, leave some chunks in the mash for a rustic feel. Keep the mashed potatoes warm in a covered pot on the stove with very low heat while preparing the gravy to ensure everything is served hot.

Crafting the Perfect Gravy

Creating the gravy is where the dish truly comes to life. After cooking the ground beef, the fond left in the skillet is essential for flavor. Don't skip the step of scraping up those brown bits after adding the onions; this adds depth to your gravy. The mushrooms contribute an earthy richness, so choosing fresh varieties, like cremini or button mushrooms, can enhance the taste further. Sauté them until they start to turn golden, releasing their moisture for the best flavor.

When whisking in the flour, do so gradually to avoid lumps. Keep the gravy at a gentle simmer as it thickens to prevent it from burning on the bottom. If the gravy is too thick, feel free to stir in a little additional beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference; sometimes, a touch of extra Worcestershire sauce can amplify the umami notes in the gravy.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Gravy

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat. Cook for about 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and return to pot. Mash with butter, milk, and salt to your desired consistency.

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, browning the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.

Make the Gravy

Stir in the mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the flour to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cooking until gravy reaches desired thickness.

Assemble the Dish

Serve the creamy mashed potatoes on a plate and top with the savory ground beef and rich gravy. Enjoy while hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. They can really brighten up the dish! Also, feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if preferred.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor. For gluten-free diners, swap out the all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. To maintain the gravy’s thickness, combine equal parts of cornstarch with cold water, then add this slurry to the simmering gravy to avoid lumps.

For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just be aware that lean meats often yield less fat, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the mixture moist. Additionally, vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a vegetarian version, but be sure to enhance it with spices to deepen the flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about this dish is that it can be prepared in advance. Both the mashed potatoes and gravy can be made the night before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge; this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld. Reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore their creamy texture before serving.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish reheats beautifully. Just remember to keep the layers intact; avoid microwaving the mashed potatoes directly as they may dry out. Instead, reheat in a saucepan on low heat, stirring frequently, and add a bit of milk or butter to keep them luscious. The prepared gravy can also be frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent option for batch cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This recipe pairs great with steamed vegetables or a green salad for a more balanced meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store the leftovers in an airtight container, and they should last up to three months in the freezer.

→ How can I make this more nutritious?

Try adding in some chopped carrots or peas to the beef mix for extra veggies and nutrients.