Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Beef Mashed Potatoes recipe elevates the classic comfort food to new heights, combining the richness of tender beef with the creamy indulgence of perfectly mashed potatoes. It's a fantastic option for a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal perfect for a weeknight, or a show-stopping dish for a family gathering. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the herbs to release their aroma.
- Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the beef is tender.
Making the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the quartered potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them using a potato masher or electric mixer.
- Gradually add the warm milk and butter, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining the Dishes:
- Gently fold the cooked beef mixture into the mashed potatoes. You can leave some beef on top for a visually appealing presentation.
Tips for the Best Beef Mashed Potatoes:
- For extra flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a hint of heat.
- Creamier potatoes: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an ultra-rich texture.
- Garlic lovers: Add more garlic! A little extra garlic never hurts.
- Make it ahead: The beef and mashed potatoes can be made separately ahead of time and combined just before serving. This is a great option for meal prepping!
Variations:
- Cheesy Beef Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes along with the beef.
- Beef and Mushroom Mashed Potatoes: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added depth of flavor.
- Herby Twist: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, oregano, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Beef Mashed Potatoes recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite. It's a delicious example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. Enjoy!