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#### Step 3: Make the Gravy
1. **Remove the Beef**: Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and set it aside to rest. The meat will be juicy and easy to shred with a fork.
2. **Create the Roux**: To make the gravy, melt the **butter** in the pot over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the **flour** and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a roux.
3. **Add Beef Broth**: Gradually pour in the **beef broth**, whisking to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
4. **Shred the Beef**: While the gravy is thickening, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Add the shredded beef back into the pot with the gravy, stirring to combine. Allow the beef to absorb some of the gravy for extra flavor.
#### Step 4: Make the Mashed Potatoes
1. **Boil the Potatoes**: Peel and chop the **potatoes** into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
2. **Mash the Potatoes**: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the **butter** and **milk** (or heavy cream for extra richness). Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
1. **Plate the Dish**: Serve a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, topping it with a hearty portion of beef and gravy.
2. **Garnish (Optional)**: For added flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top of the mashed potatoes and beef.
### Tips for the Perfect Beef and Gravy
– **Slow-Cooked Perfection**: If you have time, let the beef cook low and slow for even more tender results. The longer you cook it, the more flavor the beef will absorb from the broth.
– **Thick or Thin Gravy?**: Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more or less beef broth. If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
– **Vegetable Add-ins**: Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas to the beef and gravy for added flavor and color. You can add them in with the onions during the sautéing step.
– **Make-Ahead**: This dish can be made ahead of time! Simply cook the beef and gravy, then store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve and make fresh mashed potatoes.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– **Comforting and Hearty**: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners and family meals.
– **Rich and Flavorful**: The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the gravy has a deep, savory flavor that enhances every bite.
– **Customizable**: Whether you want to make the gravy thicker, add vegetables, or tweak the seasoning, this recipe allows plenty of room for personalization.
### Final Thoughts
**Beef and Gravy with Mashed Potatoes** is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and fills the house with the most wonderful smells. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this comforting meal in your own kitchen.
So next time you’re craving a hearty, delicious dinner, skip the takeout and make this **beef and gravy** masterpiece—it’s the ultimate meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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