Ground Beef and Gravy

Savory, Comforting, and Perfect Over Mashed Potatoes or Rice

Ground Beef and Gravy is the ultimate weeknight comfort food — rich, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s made with simple pantry staples and lean ground beef, then smothered in a savory homemade gravy that comes together in one skillet. This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or even toast for a satisfying, old-school meal that feels like home.

 Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Skill Level: Easy

• Servings: 4–5 servings

 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium recommended)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Optional: ½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and chopped onion.

3. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

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Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

1. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat and onions. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

2. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.

3. Add Worcestershire sauce and optional herbs like thyme or parsley.

Step 4: Simmer

1. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the gravy simmer for 5–8 minutes, or until thickened to your desired consistency.

2. If using mushrooms or peas, stir them in during the last 3–5 minutes of simmering.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the ground beef and gravy over:

• Mashed potatoes

• White or brown rice

• Egg noodles

• Biscuits or toast

• Cauliflower mash (low-carb option)

Garnish with chopped parsley for color and freshness.

 Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

• Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli

• Dinner rolls or biscuits

• Simple side salad

Make it a Shepherd’s Pie twist by topping with mashed potatoes and baking until golden.

 Intensity & Effort

Cooking Intensity: Easy

This is a one-pan dish with straightforward steps — ideal for:

• Beginner cooks

• Busy families

• Meal prep lovers

• Budget-conscious cooking

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Reheat: Gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed.

 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Note: Varies based on beef leanness, added veggies, and serving method.