When you need a hearty, comforting meal, nothing beats tender beef smothered in rich, savory gravy over creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is a classic Southern favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday comfort meals. With simple ingredients and big flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple at your table.
Ingredients
For the Beef & Gravy:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 3 tbsp water for thickening)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef & Gravy
1️⃣ Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
3️⃣ Add Liquid & Simmer: Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir well.
4️⃣ Cook Until Tender: Return beef to the pot, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until the beef is fork-tender. (For a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.)
5️⃣ Thicken the Gravy: Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the gravy. Simmer until thickened.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
1️⃣ Boil the Potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
2️⃣ Mash & Mix: Drain and mash the potatoes. Stir in butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble & Serve
1️⃣ Spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate.
2️⃣ Ladle beef and gravy over the top.
3️⃣ Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot!
Cooking Notes & Tips
✔ For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or soy sauce to the gravy.
✔ Want More Veggies? Add carrots, peas, or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
✔ Make It Creamier: Stir sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes.
✔ Slow Cooker Friendly: Just throw everything (except the cornstarch) in and let it do the work!
Variations
🔹 Keto & Low-Carb Version:
- Replace potatoes with mashed cauliflower.
- Skip cornstarch and let the sauce reduce naturally.
🔹 Spicy Kick:
- Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy.
🔹 Cheesy Mash:
- Stir cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
🔹 Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze the beef and gravy separately from mashed potatoes. Thaw overnight before reheating.
🔹 What’s the best beef cut for this recipe?
Chuck roast or stew meat works best for tender, juicy bites
This Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the perfect comfort food—rich, flavorful, and satisfying! Whether you make it stovetop, slow cooker, or pressure cooker, this dish will have your family coming back for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the ultimate cozy meal! 🥩
