This dish is a classic comfort meal that never goes out of style. Creamy mashed potatoes form the base—fluffy, buttery, and smooth—while a generous ladle of seasoned ground beef and rich brown gravy crowns the top. It’s the kind of plate that feels like a hug: warm, filling, and deeply flavorful.
The ground beef is browned and simmered with onions, garlic, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, then enveloped in a homemade gravy that’s thickened just right. The mashed potatoes are whipped with butter and cream until silky, offering the perfect contrast to the savory meat topping. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this dish satisfies every craving for warmth and richness.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
For the mashed potatoes:
- 1.5 kg (about 3 lbs) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup whole milk or cream, warmed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness
For the ground beef and gravy:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter or oil for sautéing
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
🥣 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Mash the potatoes using a masher or hand mixer. Add butter, warm milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper. For extra creaminess, fold in sour cream or cream cheese. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Cover and keep warm.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until the gravy thickens and coats the beef. Taste and adjust seasoning. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
3. Assemble and Serve
Spoon a generous mound of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with a ladle of ground beef and gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.
🍽 SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp salad.
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up the gravy.
- Add a fried egg on top for a breakfast-for-dinner twist.
- Use leftovers in wraps or stuffed baked potatoes.
🧠 TIPS & VARIATIONS:
- For deeper flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the gravy.
- For a spicy kick: Stir in chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- For a vegetarian version: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef and vegetable broth.
- Make-ahead: Both components can be made ahead and reheated gently.
