Directions to follow
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Start by placing your chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with water and bring it to a boil. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth and creamy, mixing in butter and milk. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your preference. Keep warm while you prepare the rest.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and minced garlic—cooking until soft and fragrant, roughly 2-3 minutes. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, and let it brown. If there’s excess fat, drain it.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the browned beef and stir, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens nicely.
Assemble: Generously serve the flavorful ground beef and gravy over a bed of your warm, creamy mashed potatoes.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your experience, consider plating the dish in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the hearty layers. You might also want to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. For side dishes, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad can nicely complement the richness of the beef and gravy, adding a refreshing balance to your meal.
How to store
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely with how delicious this meal is), here’s how to properly store them. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. This mixture stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it—where it can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers!
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush the browning: Allow the ground beef to brown adequately for a deeper flavor.
- Seasoning is key: Taste as you go, especially when adding salt and pepper.
- Mashed potatoes consistency: If you prefer creamier potatoes, adjust the milk quantity according to your preference.
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and texture. If you love a bit of spice, consider stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce in the gravy.
You can also experiment with different herbs, using fresh rosemary or basil instead of thyme, for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, while the total cooking time is about 20 minutes, making it a quick dinner option.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Is it safe to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly upon enjoying again.
