Ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes

Ingredients:

For the Ground Beef and Gravy:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes – Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash – Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot.
3. Add butter and cream – Mash the potatoes while adding the butter, heavy cream (or milk), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Gravy

1. Brown the beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the aromatics – Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Make the roux – Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. Melt the butter in the empty side, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add liquids – Slowly whisk in the beef broth, followed by Worcestershire sauce, heavy cream (or milk), salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well combined.
5. Simmer – Let the gravy cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

• Scoop a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl.
• Spoon the ground beef and gravy mixture over the top.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives (optional).
• Serve hot and enjoy!