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### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for 15–20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a richer taste, you can also add a little heavy cream or sour cream. Set the mashed potatoes aside and keep warm.
#### **Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef**
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7–8 minutes.
#### **Step 3: Make the Gravy**
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the flour over the meat and stir to combine. This will help thicken the gravy. Let the flour cook for 1–2 minutes, then slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and stir until the gravy begins to thicken, about 5–7 minutes.
If the gravy is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
#### **Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with a hearty ladle of the ground beef and gravy mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
### **Why This Dish Is So Special**
– **Rich and Flavorful Gravy**: The gravy made with ground beef, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce is savory and full of depth. It brings the perfect amount of richness to the dish, elevating the simple mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.
– **Tender Ground Beef**: The ground beef is cooked until tender and juicy, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the gravy. It’s the perfect meaty counterpart to the creamy potatoes.
– **Simple Yet Satisfying**: Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones. This dish requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum comfort and satisfaction.
### **Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes**
– **Use the Right Potatoes**: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because they have a buttery texture. Russet potatoes are also great but may require a little more butter and cream to get that silky texture.
– **Customize Your Gravy**: While this recipe calls for Worcestershire sauce and thyme, feel free to experiment with other herbs and seasonings like rosemary, parsley, or even a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
– **Add Veggies**: If you want to bulk up the dish with some extra vegetables, consider adding peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture. You can sauté them along with the onions and garlic for added flavor.
– **Make it Ahead**: This dish is perfect for meal prep. The ground beef and gravy can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra milk or butter.
### **Conclusion**
**Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes** is the ultimate comfort food—a filling, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its savory beef gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy night or a special occasion, this hearty meal will never disappoint. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a comforting bowl of pure deliciousness! 🍽️✨
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