Hamburger Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes – Old‑Fashioned Favorite Comfort Food Recipe

Hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes is a simple, classic dish that has been loved for generations. It combines ground beef with a rich, creamy gravy that soaks into fluffy mashed potatoes.

This meal is comforting and easy to make. It is often ready in about 20 minutes using basic ingredients like flour, milk, and beef broth.

The key to a great hamburger gravy is using pan drippings and a few pantry staples to create a thick, flavorful sauce. This old-fashioned favorite is budget-friendly and fills the kitchen with warm, inviting aromas.

It’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting a satisfying and quick homemade meal.

Classic Hamburger Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

This dish combines simple ingredients to create a rich, hearty meal. It starts with ground beef cooked in a savory gravy made from pan drippings, flour, and milk.

Creamy mashed potatoes serve as the perfect base to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Ingredients for Traditional Hamburger Gravy

The basic ingredients include:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped onions or garlic for extra flavor

The ground beef forms the meat base. Flour helps thicken the gravy, while milk creates a smooth, creamy texture.

Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential for balance. Adding onions or garlic adds depth but is not required.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks until no pink remains.

Drain excess fat if needed. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef and stir well.

Cook the flour and beef mixture for about a minute to remove raw flour taste. Slowly add milk while stirring constantly.

This prevents lumps and lets the gravy thicken evenly. Cook until it reaches the desired consistency, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Finish with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture. Peel and cut them into even chunks so they cook evenly.

Boil in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot to dry out briefly.

Mash while hot using a potato masher or mixer. Add butter and warm milk or cream gradually for creaminess.

Avoid overmixing to keep a fluffy texture. Season with salt and pepper.

For extra flavor, add garlic powder or cheese if desired.

How to Serve and Present

Spoon mashed potatoes onto the plate first, creating a thick base. Ladle generous amounts of hamburger gravy over the top.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for color. Serve with simple sides like steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Warm biscuits or dinner rolls complement this meal. It works well for family dinners and can be made quickly for weeknight meals.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Changes to the meat, additions like vegetables, and varied seasonings can all alter the dish’s flavor and texture.

Different Meat and Vegetarian Options

While ground beef is traditional, other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used for a leaner or different taste. Ground turkey is a popular substitution and offers a milder flavor that absorbs seasonings well.

For a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or textured vegetable protein can replace meat. These provide a similar texture and absorb the gravy’s flavors.

Using broth or plant-based milk alternatives keeps the dish suitable for vegetarians or those with dairy intolerance. Adjust cooking times slightly to ensure these alternatives blend smoothly into the gravy.

Adding Mushrooms, Onions, or Peas

Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Mushrooms add an earthy, meaty taste and deepen the gravy’s richness.

Sauté mushrooms first to bring out their flavor before combining with the meat or meat substitute. Onions add sweetness and aroma when cooked until soft and golden.

They pair well with garlic and enhance the gravy’s overall depth. Green peas bring color, a bit of sweetness, and a slight crunch.

Stir them in toward the end to keep their texture. These vegetables add variety without overwhelming the basic comfort of the dish.

Seasoning and Spice Suggestions

Salt and pepper form the base seasoning, but adding herbs and spices enhances flavor complexity. Common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

For mild heat, cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes work well. Worcestershire sauce and beef broth add umami and deepen the gravy’s taste.

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, added at the end, brighten the dish. Experimenting with small amounts of mustard or soy sauce can also add subtle flavor layers.

Pairings and Meal Planning

This meal works well with simple sides, drinks that balance its rich flavor, and thoughtful storage options. Planning with these details keeps the meal satisfying and easy to enjoy.

Side Dish Recommendations

Hearty vegetables like steamed green beans or roasted carrots add color and nutrition. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the gravy and potatoes.

For bread lovers, warm dinner rolls or crusty bread help soak up extra gravy. Avoid heavy starches since mashed potatoes are already filling.

Simple steamed or sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, offer a slight bitterness that complements the savory meat and gravy. These choices keep the meal balanced and inviting.

Beverage Pairings

Light to medium-bodied drinks are best. Unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water with lemon refreshes the palate between bites.

For alcoholic options, a mild red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot pairs well with ground beef gravy. These wines are not too heavy and bring subtle fruit notes.

Ciders or light lagers work if wine is not preferred. Avoid overly sweet or strongly flavored drinks that might compete with the dish’s savory taste.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers should be cooled quickly and stored in airtight containers in the fridge. They keep well for 3 to 4 days.

Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently and adding a small splash of milk or broth to loosen the gravy if needed. This prevents drying out.

Microwaving works too but may cause uneven heating. Cover the dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to warm it evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the traditional spices used in old-fashioned hamburger gravy?

Common spices include salt, black pepper, and sometimes cayenne pepper for a mild kick. Onion and garlic powder or fresh onions and garlic add deep flavor.

Worcestershire sauce or beef bouillon often enhances the meatiness.

How can I thicken hamburger gravy without using flour?

Cornstarch mixed with cold water works well as a thickener. Another option is using mashed potatoes or instant potato flakes.

Reducing the gravy by simmering it longer also increases thickness naturally.

What is the secret to making creamy mashed potatoes for serving with hamburger gravy?

Using a starchy potato like Russet or Yukon Gold helps achieve fluffiness. Heating the milk or cream before adding it to the potatoes keeps everything smooth.

Adding butter and whisking well creates a creamy texture.

Are there any gluten-free variations of the classic hamburger gravy recipe?

Yes, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can replace flour as a thickener. Using gluten-free beef broth or bouillon ensures the recipe stays safe.

Avoiding added sauces with gluten helps keep it clear.

What type of ground beef is best for a rich and savory hamburger gravy?

Ground beef with about 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio gives the best flavor and moisture. Leaner meat can make the gravy less rich.

A fattier grind helps create a more savory profile.

How does the Pioneer Woman incorporate ground beef into her gravy for a hearty meal?

She browns the ground beef first, then drains excess grease.

After that, flour and seasonings are added to form a roux.

Milk or broth is poured in and cooked until thickened.

This creates a creamy, thick gravy perfect for mashed potatoes.