Craving a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this comforting classic: hamburger gravy served over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly satisfying and delicious dish. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Hamburger Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Making the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash until mostly smooth.
- Stir in the milk and butter until creamy and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Making the Hamburger Gravy:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
Assembling the Dish:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates.
- Ladle the hot hamburger gravy generously over the mashed potatoes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the ground beef; this will ensure even browning.
- If your gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A dash of your favorite hot sauce adds a nice kick.
Variations:
- Cheesy Gravy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the gravy during the last minute of cooking.
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This recipe is a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals, delivering a delicious and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and a truly satisfying meal for the entire family. Enjoy your homemade cooking experience!