- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
- Cover and keep warm while you prepare the beef and gravy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef & Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Push the beef to one side of the pan, then melt the butter on the empty side. Stir in flour, mixing well to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Let simmer for 5 minutes, until thickened.
3. Serve & Enjoy!
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl, then generously ladle beef and gravy over the top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of warm dinner rolls to soak up extra gravy.
- Top with shredded cheese for an extra indulgent twist.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the gravy.
- Freeze the beef and gravy for up to 3 months (mashed potatoes don’t freeze well but can be made fresh).
Custom Variations
🔥 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the gravy.
🧄 Garlic Lovers – Double the garlic for a deeper flavor.
🍄 Mushroom Gravy – Add sautéed mushrooms for extra richness.
🥩 Steakhouse Style – Use ground sirloin for a leaner, beefier taste.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Yes! The beef and gravy can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving.
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Absolutely! For convenience, instant mashed potatoes work fine, but homemade always tastes better.
Q: What’s the best ground beef to use?
A: 80/20 ground beef has the best balance of flavor and juiciness, but 90/10 works for a leaner option.
continued on next page