Ground Beef Recipes With Potatoes And Gravy
Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Bites
When I first combined ground beef, potatoes, and gravy, I knew I was onto something special. The savory beef pairs perfectly with the creamy, rich gravy, creating a harmony of flavors that warms the soul. I love how simple and comforting this dish feels, making it a family favorite during cold nights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys, whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
In my quest to create comforting meals, I stumbled upon this delightful combination of ground beef, potatoes, and gravy. The first time I made it, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together while still delivering maximum flavor. To enhance the dish, I sautéed onions and garlic before adding the beef, which created an enticing aroma that lingered in the kitchen.
Over the years, I have tried various ways to top this dish, but I’ve found that a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving elevates the flavors beautifully. Experimenting with different types of gravy has also added a unique twist to the overall experience, making each meal feel special.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying hunger.
- Rich flavors that blend beautifully in every bite.
- A nostalgic comfort food that brings warmth to the table.
Understanding the Ingredients
The foundation of this dish lies in its ingredients, particularly the ground beef. Using a quality ground beef that has a fat content of around 80/20 will yield the best flavor and texture. The fat renders out during cooking, adding richness to the gravy. For a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that these leaner meats may result in a slightly drier texture. Don't forget the importance of the potatoes; they act as a hearty base that soaks up the flavor of the gravy, making every bite comforting.
Onions and garlic are often underestimated but play a crucial role in building the flavor profile of this dish. Cooking them until they are just golden enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the savory notes of the beef. This step is essential, as it forms the aromatic base for the gravy. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or leeks could be used interchangeably with similar results, while maintaining a distinct flavor.
Technique Tips for Perfecting Your Gravy
Achieving the perfect gravy consistency is all about technique. When sprinkling flour over the browned beef, ensure it’s evenly distributed before stirring to avoid clumping. Once you add the beef broth, stirring constantly helps create a smooth sauce. If your gravy ends up too thick, you can gradually whisk in more broth until the desired consistency is reached. For added richness, consider incorporating cream or a splash of Worcestershire sauce at the end of cooking.
Also, a gentle simmer is key during the thickening process. Bring your mixture just to a boil, then reduce the heat to low so that it bubbles gently. This allows flavors to meld without the risk of burning. If you notice the gravy starting to stick or darken too much, simply lower the heat and stir continuously. These small adjustments make a significant difference in the final dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Instructions
How to Make It
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for 3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the browned beef and stir well to combine. Gradually add beef broth while stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
Combine and Serve
Fold the cooked potatoes into the beef gravy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or peas, into the mix. Allowing the gravy to simmer longer can intensify its flavor, so feel free to adjust cooking times as desired.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served in a variety of ways, great for family dinners or casual gatherings. I love to pair it with crusty bread or dinner rolls, allowing everyone to mop up the flavorful gravy. You might consider serving it alongside steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Another fun idea is to serve it in a bowl with crackers on the side; let everyone dig in, adding an element of warmth and togetherness.
For those looking to elevate the meal, consider adding cheese. A sprinkle of cheddar or a dollop of sour cream as a topping can bring an extra layer of flavor. Chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, also add a fresh touch and a burst of color to the plate, making it visually appealing.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best aspects of this ground beef and potato dish is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the gravy and cook the potatoes in advance, keeping each component separate until you are ready to serve. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner solution; simply reheat the gravy on the stove while steaming the potatoes. The flavors will deepen overnight, making this dish even better the next day.
When it comes to storage, this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat frozen portions, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to bring back the desired texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great substitute for a lighter version of this dish.
→ How can I make the gravy vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian gravy.
→ What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are excellent choices for their creaminess and ability to hold their shape.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat and gravy ahead of time and simply add the potatoes when ready to serve.
Ground Beef Recipes With Potatoes And Gravy
When I first combined ground beef, potatoes, and gravy, I knew I was onto something special. The savory beef pairs perfectly with the creamy, rich gravy, creating a harmony of flavors that warms the soul. I love how simple and comforting this dish feels, making it a family favorite during cold nights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys, whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Created by: Daphne Collins
Recipe Type: Warm Comfort Bites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for 3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Sprinkle flour over the browned beef and stir well to combine. Gradually add beef broth while stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
Fold the cooked potatoes into the beef gravy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or peas, into the mix. Allowing the gravy to simmer longer can intensify its flavor, so feel free to adjust cooking times as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 26g