A classic comfort food dish featuring seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich, savory gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup Milk or Heavy Cream (adjust to desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary (optional)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes.
- Heat the milk or cream and butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave until the butter is melted.
- Add the warm milk/cream mixture to the mashed potatoes and continue mashing until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Gravy:
- Sprinkle the flour over the ground beef mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Ladle the ground beef and gravy over the mashed potatoes.
- Serve hot.
Optional additions:
- Add frozen peas or mixed vegetables to the gravy during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- add a splash of heavy cream to the gravy for extra richness.
Enjoy your comforting meal!