Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and full of rich flavors. Tender mashed potatoes are paired with a savory ground beef gravy, creating a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
This dish is easy to make with simple ingredients and delivers a homemade taste that everyone will love.
Whether served as is or with a side of vegetables, it’s a timeless classic that never disappoints!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe because it’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make with simple ingredients.
The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes perfectly complement the rich, savory beef gravy, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
It’s a budget-friendly recipe that can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Plus, it’s a nostalgic, home-cooked meal that reminds many of family dinners and classic comfort food.
Key Ingredients:
Ground Beef – The star of the dish, providing a rich, meaty flavor.
Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes – Create creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up the delicious gravy.
Butter & Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and richness to the mashed potatoes.
Beef Broth – Forms the base of the savory, flavorful gravy.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the gravy for a smooth, velvety texture.
Onion & Garlic Powder – Enhances the depth of flavor in the gravy.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
Water
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons butter
½ cup whole milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Black pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef and Gravy
1 pound ground beef
2 cups beef broth, divided
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
¼-½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
For the Mashed Potatoes
Fill a medium pot with water, adding salt for seasoning. Bring it to a rapid boil over medium-high heat, then carefully add the chopped potatoes. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until they can be easily pierced with a fork.
While the potatoes are cooking, place the butter and milk in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted completely. Alternatively, microwave the butter and milk in short intervals, whisking between each, until smooth.
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or fork to achieve your preferred consistency.
Gradually pour in the warmed butter-milk mixture, stirring well to combine. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing until evenly incorporated. Adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside until ready to serve.
For the Ground Beef and Gravy
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with ¼ cup of beef broth. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Pour in 1 ½ cups of beef broth, then add the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes until the onions soften.
Once the onions have softened, slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes until the gravy thickens.
To Serve
Divide the mashed potatoes evenly onto plates or bowls, then generously top with the ground beef and gravy. Serve warm with extra gravy if desired. Enjoy!
Notes:
Ground Beef Options: You can use lean ground beef for a lighter dish or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. If using poultry, enhance the flavor with extra seasonings or bouillon.
Mashed Potatoes Shortcut: For convenience, instant mashed potatoes can be used instead of homemade.
Gravy Alternative: If you’re short on time, canned beef gravy (1–2 cans) can be used instead of making it from scratch.
Thicker Gravy: Adjust the cornstarch mixture for a thicker consistency by adding an extra tablespoon if needed.
Serving Tip: Pair with steamed vegetables or a side salad to round out the meal
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: ~450 kcal | Protein: ~25g | Carbohydrates: ~40g | Fat: ~22g | Saturated Fat: ~10g | Cholesterol: ~75mg | Sodium: ~700mg (varies based on broth and added salt) | Fiber: ~4g | Sugar: ~3g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare both the mashed potatoes and the ground beef with gravy in advance.
Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth or milk to loosen the texture if needed.
How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If the gravy is too thin, mix an additional 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water or broth, then slowly stir it into the simmering gravy.
Cook for a couple of minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.
Just keep in mind that turkey and chicken have a milder flavor, so you may need to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
What’s the best way to make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use Yukon Gold potatoes, add warm milk and melted butter gradually, and mash using a potato ricer or electric mixer.
You can also stir in sour cream or cream cheese for an even richer texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store the beef and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Adding a splash of broth or milk when reheating will help maintain the texture.
How do I keep mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?
To avoid gummy mashed potatoes, use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes and mash them gently with a potato masher or ricer.
Avoid overmixing, especially with an electric mixer, as this can cause the potatoes to become gluey.
What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the gravy?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour.
Make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with ¼ cup of cold broth or water before adding it to the skillet.
Let it cook for a few minutes until thickened.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef in a skillet first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with the broth, onions, and seasonings.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Before serving, add the cornstarch slurry and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.
What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?
Reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Add a little milk or butter to restore their creamy texture.
If reheating a large batch, the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes works well.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! You can add peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the ground beef and gravy mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Just sauté them with the onions or stir in frozen veggies near the end of cooking.