Okay, so let’s be real for a minute. We all have those nights when we just crave pure, unadulterated comfort food. What’s better than a plate of creamy Ground Beef and gravy? Is it like a hug in the bowl? It reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, the smell of onions simmering, and that cozy feeling of being in her kitchen. surrounded by family. Forget fancy Beef Bourguignon for tonight. What kind of food does it make you want to curl up on the couch? What are some good books to read on a couch? What are some of the best recipes for ground beef and gravy?
What is ground beef and gravy?
Ground Beef and gravy – think of it as the ultimate humble dish, elevated! What is ground beef stewed in? The gravy is typically made from a roux (that’s just flour and butter cooked together), beef broth, and some vegetables. What are the best season How do you get used to the roux? It’s the kind of recipe your grandma probably made, passed down through generations, always reliable. What are some of the best things about Isn’t it a family favorite? Some people call it SOS (same old stuff), but I call its simply delicious.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, buckle up, because I could go on about this recipe forever! What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly versatile it is. It’s the ultimate customizable dish.
* **Flavor:** The savory, rich flavor of the gravy, combined with the hearty Ground Beef, is just irresistible. Seriously, it’s a flavor explosion in your mouth! It’s the perfect balance of savory and comforting.
* **Simplicity:** This recipe is seriously SO easy. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up in under 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights.
* **Cost-efficiency:** Ground beef is one of the most budget-friendly proteins out there, making this a super affordable meal. Plus, you can stretch it even further by serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or toast!
* **Versatility:** I mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating! You can serve this over mashed potatoes (my personal fave!), rice, biscuits, toast, or even pasta. You can also add veggies like mushrooms, peas, or carrots to make it a complete meal. My secret ingredient? A splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor – trust me on this one! I tested this with various stocks, and it turns out chicken stock gave the gravy a surprising richness.
It’s similar to shepherd’s pie in its comforting nature, but way easier to make. If you love a good, hearty, no-fuss meal, this is the recipe for you. I tested this with my incredibly picky 6 year old, and now she begs for it every single week!
How do you make ground beef and gravy?
Quick Overview
What is the recipe for browning Ground Beef? I know it sounds simple, but it is! What are some tips for making gravy smooth? Is this recipe worth it? Even a beginner cook can nail it on the first try. Don’t be intimidated by the gravy – it’s easier than you think!
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef: Why is it called ground
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Gravy:
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups beef broth
* 1/2 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (my secret ingredient)!
* Salt and pepper to taste
What are the step-
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, brown Ground Beef over medium-high heat. When a chicken is browned, break it up with the spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Why do people like greasy gravy?
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 5 minutes. Cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Make the Roux
How do you melt butter in a skillet with beef and onions? Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This is your roux! What should be a smooth paste. Be careful not to burn it, or your gravy will taste bitter. I always use a whisk for this step to make sure there are no lumps.
Step 4: Whisk in the Broth
Slowly whisk in the beef broth, making sure to incorporate it smoothly into the roux. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. This is where patience comes in! Keep whisking to prevent lumps and ensure a silky smooth gravy.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the gravy for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. If you want a creamier gravy, stir in the milk during the last few minutes of simmering. I tested it with almond milk, and it actually made it even creamier!
Step 6: Combine and Serve
How do you prepare Ground Beef? Pour the gravy over the beef and stir to combine. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes, rice, biscuits, or toast. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. I always make sure to have extra gravy on the side for dipping.
What do you serve it with?
What is a blank canvas for culinary creativity? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: in a bowl.
Over Mashed Potatoes: WhatThis is the classic for a reason! What’s a match made in heaven? Creamy mashed potatoes and savory Ground Beef and gravy. I always add garlic to my mashed potatoes for extra flavor. I like to make them more flavorful.
Over Rice:What is a good white rice dish to make with gravy? I sometimes use brown rice for a healthier twist. Is it healthy to eat too many calories?
On Biscuits:What are some comforting biscuits to serve with Ground Beef and gravy? Breakfast or brunch. I have also tested this with my homemade biscuits and they are incredibly delicious.
On Toast:What is a good way to enjoy toasted bread for lunch? What do you serve with a side of sourdough bread?
My family loves it best with mashed potatoes and a side of steamed Green Beans. It’s a complete, satisfying meal that everyone enjoys. Sometimes, I’ll add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra tang – it’s surprisingly good!
I always make sure to have a little extra gravy on the side for dipping!
How do I perfect my ground beef and gravy?
What is the best way to take your ground beef and gravy to the next level? What are some of the best tips I have learned over the years?
Beef Quality:I prefer using 80/20 ground beef because it has a higher fat content, which adds flavor to the dish. Is it safe to use leaner ground beef? If you are using a skillet, add extra butter or oil to the skillet to prevent it from sticking.
Onion Chopping Make sure to chop the onion finely so it cooks evenly and doesn’t overpower the dish. I sometimes use a food processor to chop the onion quickly and easily.
Roux ConsistencyThe roux is the foundation of your gravy, so it’s important to get it right. Cook the flour and butter for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste. If you burn gravy, be careful not to burn it, or it will taste bitter.
What is the best broHow do you make beef broth? I usually heat the broth in the microwave for a minute or two before adding it to the roux.
Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season your gravy generously! Salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce are essential, but you can also add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor. I sometimes add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried thyme.
Lump Prevention: If your gravy does have lumps, don’t panic! You can usually whisk them out by hand. If not, I strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or use an immersion blender to make it smooth again.
Creaminess: For an extra creamy gravy, stir in a little milk or cream during the last few minutes of simmering. I sometimes use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you are vegan, oat milk works wonders here!
I learned the hard way that adding the broth too quickly can cause lumps. Now, I pour it in slowly while whisking like crazy! I also accidentally burned the roux once, and the gravy was ruined. Trust me, don’t walk away from the stove during that step!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your ground beef and gravy:
Room Temperature: I do not recommend storing it at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the ground beef and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before storing.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze the ground beef and gravy in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the ground beef and gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splattering. If the gravy is too thick, add a little beef broth or milk to thin it out.
Glaze Timing Advice: This does not have a glaze, so no glaze timing here.
I always let it cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation from forming, which can make the gravy watery. Also, I label the container with the date so I know when it was made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to ground beef and gravy recipes. Seriously, this is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home. It’s simple, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. It is perfect to fill you up with happiness and joy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you probably already have on hand. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other comforting dinner ideas, like shepherd’s pie or beef stew! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below what you think and if you add your own twist to it. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef and Gravy Recipes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
