Indulge Hamburger Gravy Mashed: 1 Dreamy Dish

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Hamburger Gravy Mashed has been my go-to for those nights when I need a serious hug in a bowl. I still remember my mom making this for us after a long day, the aroma of savory gravy filling the kitchen, and the creamy mashed potatoes practically melting in my mouth. It’s a true taste of nostalgia and a seriously easy recipe that feels incredibly special. Learning how to make hamburger gravy mashed myself was a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s the ultimate comfort food that always hits the spot. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Gravy Mashed

This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why this dish is destined to become a favorite:

Incredible Taste: The rich, savory hamburger gravy perfectly complements the fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes for a flavor explosion.
Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch for a satisfying family dinner.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this hearty, comforting dish.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the ground beef and wholesome goodness from the potatoes.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with add-ins for a personalized touch.
Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s the definition of a warm, satisfying meal that feels like home.

Ingredients for Hamburger Gravy Mashed

Gather these simple ingredients to create a truly comforting meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward components, perfect for making delicious hamburger gravy and creamy mashed potatoes.

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered – Russets or Yukon Golds work best for fluffy mashed potatoes.
1 pound ground beef – A lean blend (like 90/10) is great for the savory hamburger gravy without too much grease.
1 medium onion, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the gravy.
2 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential aromatic base.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – This is key to thickening your hamburger gravy to the perfect consistency.
3 cups beef broth – Forms the liquid base for a rich, flavorful gravy.
1/2 cup milk – Makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and smooth.
1/4 cup butter – Adds richness to both the potatoes and can be used to start the gravy.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

How to Make Hamburger Gravy Mashed

Whipping up this delicious comfort food is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying meal.

Step 1: Start by boiling your potatoes. Place the 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and quartered, into a large pot. Cover with cold water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork slides in with no resistance.
Step 2: While the potatoes are boiling, begin your rich hamburger gravy. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the 1 pound ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease, leaving just a little for flavor.
Step 3: Add the 1 medium onion, chopped, to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant – oh, that smell!
Step 4: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the meat and onion mixture. Stir everything together really well and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. This step toasts the flour and helps create a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the 3 cups beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let it bubble gently for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully. This is where the magic happens for your easy recipe!
Step 6: Once the gravy has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 1/2 cup milk and the 1/4 cup butter. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Keep it warm while you finish the potatoes.
Step 7: Drain the cooked potatoes well. Return them to the pot and mash them with the milk, butter, salt, and pepper until they are wonderfully creamy and smooth.
Step 8: Serve generous portions of the fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with the warm, savory hamburger gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food!

Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Gravy Mashed

Want to elevate your comfort food game? These little tricks will make your Hamburger Gravy Mashed absolutely unforgettable:

Use a mix of potato types! Combining starchy Russets with waxy Yukon Golds gives you the fluffiest potatoes with the best flavor.
Don’t skip browning the beef well. Those browned bits are pure flavor gold for the gravy.
For an extra rich gravy, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine after browning the beef, before adding the flour.
Ensure your milk and butter are at room temperature for both the potatoes and the gravy; they’ll incorporate more smoothly.

What’s the secret to perfect hamburger gravy?

The real secret is building flavor layers. Browning the beef well, sautéing the onions until sweet, and toasting the flour before adding the broth are crucial steps for a deeply savory, comforting hamburger gravy. For more on building flavor, check out these tips on making pan sauces.

Can I make Hamburger Gravy Mashed ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and the hamburger gravy separately up to 2 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. You can find more make-ahead tips on Food Network.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hamburger Gravy Mashed?

A common pitfall is lumpy gravy; whisk constantly when adding broth. Also, don’t overcook your potatoes, or they can become watery. Finally, ensure your ground beef isn’t too lean, as some fat is needed for flavor in the gravy. For more on potato cooking, see Simply Recipes’ guide.

Best Ways to Serve Hamburger Gravy Mashed

This hearty dish shines on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your meal. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner any night of the week.

Classic Pairing: Serve a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes topped with the savory hamburger gravy. A side of steamed green beans or a simple garden salad adds a nice fresh contrast.
With Biscuits: Imagine fluffy, warm biscuits alongside your Hamburger Gravy Mashed. The biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious gravy!
Vegetable Medley: For a more complete meal, add some roasted carrots or peas and carrots directly into the gravy. This makes it a one-dish wonder!

Nutrition Facts for Hamburger Gravy Mashed

This hearty and satisfying dish offers a good balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown per serving, so you know what to expect from this comforting meal:

Calories: 550
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Gravy Mashed

Don’t let any delicious Hamburger Gravy Mashed go to waste! Properly storing and reheating this comfort food ensures you can enjoy those delightful flavors even after the initial meal. It’s a fantastic way to make use of leftover mashed potatoes and gravy.

First, allow the Hamburger Gravy Mashed to cool slightly at room temperature for about an hour before storing. This helps prevent bacterial growth. Transfer the cooled dish into airtight containers. For the refrigerator, it will keep well for 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, the freezer is your best friend; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. You can learn more about proper food storage on the FDA website.

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of easy methods. For refrigerated portions, gently warm the gravy and potatoes together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave them in a microwave-safe dish until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight first, then reheat as you would the refrigerated portion. A splash of milk or broth can help revive the creaminess if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Gravy Mashed

Is Hamburger Gravy Mashed a healthy meal?

While it’s a delicious comfort food, Hamburger Gravy Mashed is hearty and can be higher in calories and sodium. You can make it healthier by using leaner ground beef, reducing the salt, and serving it with a side of steamed vegetables. It’s a satisfying easy recipe that can be adapted for a more balanced diet. For more on healthy eating, visit Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

What other meats can I use for the gravy?

While ground beef is classic, you can certainly experiment! Ground turkey or chicken make for a lighter gravy. For a richer flavor, consider using Italian sausage or even chopped steak. Each option will offer a slightly different, yet still comforting, take on this beloved dish. You can find more recipe ideas on our recipes page.

How do I make the mashed potatoes creamier?

For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use a ricer or food mill instead of a masher. Warm your milk and butter before adding them to the drained potatoes. Don’t overmix, as this can make them gummy. This easy recipe benefits greatly from creamy potatoes!

Can I freeze this easy recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the components separately. The mashed potatoes might change texture slightly upon reheating, becoming a bit more watery. The gravy freezes beautifully. It’s best to store them in airtight containers. This comfort food is great for make-ahead meals! Learn more about freezing tips.

Variations of Hamburger Gravy Mashed You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? This delicious dish is incredibly versatile, making it even more perfect for your next family dinner.

Turkey or Chicken Gravy: For a lighter take, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will be a bit milder but still incredibly satisfying.
Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic. They add a wonderful earthy depth and texture to the hamburger gravy.
Hearty Vegetable Addition: Stir in some frozen peas and carrots or diced celery along with the onions for added color, nutrients, and texture. It makes for a more complete meal in one bowl!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef while it’s browning, or a dash of hot sauce to the finished gravy for a little heat.