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Hamburger Gravy Recipe Over Mashed Potatoes

hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes - featured image

This easy hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—savory, creamy, and ready in about 30 minutes using pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup whole milk (or 2% or plant-based milk)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Chives or green onions, sliced (optional)
  • Extra cracked black pepper (optional)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Peel and cube potatoes. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up meat, until browned and slightly crispy at the edges. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
  5. Slowly pour in beef broth and milk while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  6. Drain cooked potatoes and return to the pot. Add butter, cream, milk, and white pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
  7. To serve, spoon mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle hamburger gravy over the top. Garnish with parsley, chives, extra pepper, or shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Brown the beef well for extra flavor. Warm dairy before adding to potatoes for the smoothest mash. For gluten-free, use a GF flour blend. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan butter. Gravy can be made ahead and reheated; mashed potatoes are best fresh. Adjust gravy thickness by simmering longer or adding more liquid. Add mushrooms, peas, or a pinch of cayenne for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: hamburger gravy, mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef, gravy, family meal, weeknight dinner, classic, hearty, budget-friendly