If you’re looking for a classic comfort food that still fits into a balanced lifestyle, Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes is a perfect choice. This dish combines the rich flavor of lean ground beef with a creamy, lower-calorie mashed potato and cauliflower blend, all topped with a savory mushroom and onion gravy. It’s a satisfying meal that brings warmth to your table without weighing you down.
Why We Love This Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
There are many reasons why this meal stands out as a favorite. First, it balances rich flavors with a lighter touch by blending mashed potatoes with cauliflower. This simple swap cuts calories and carbs while keeping the texture creamy and smooth. You get the comfort of mashed potatoes with fewer calories and more nutrients.
The ground beef is cooked lean and seasoned simply but effectively with salt, pepper, mushrooms, and onions. The gravy that ties everything together is deeply flavorful, thanks to the addition of beef bone broth, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, adding a nice tang and depth. This makes every bite satisfying without feeling heavy.
Finally, the recipe is flexible and quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want a comforting dish without the fuss. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish comes together easily and always delivers.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish. Having your ingredients ready will help the cooking process go smoothly and efficiently.
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 pounds Extra Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz Sliced Mushrooms
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 packets Brown Gravy Mix
- 3 cups Beef Bone Broth (or any broth/liquid you prefer)
- 2 Tablespoons Coarse Dijon Mustard
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 24 oz package Mashed Potatoes (refrigerated or frozen)
- 24 oz package Mashed Cauliflower (refrigerated or frozen)
How to Make Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Preparing this meal is easy and fast, even on busy days. Here’s a clear guide to walk you through the process.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Let it brown on one side for about 4 to 5 minutes without stirring to build a nice sear.
Break apart the ground beef using a spatula or wooden spoon. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and the sliced mushrooms to the pan.
Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper to season the mixture. Stir everything together and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the onions should become soft and translucent, and the beef should cook through fully.
Sprinkle the two packets of brown gravy mix over the beef and vegetables. Stir well so the gravy mix disappears into the meat.
Pour in 3 cups of beef bone broth (or your choice of broth or liquid). Stir to combine everything evenly.
Add the coarse Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. These add a tangy, slightly sharp depth to the gravy that balances the savory flavors.
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook gently until the gravy thickens slightly. Keep in mind the gravy will thicken more as it cools, so don’t overcook it.
While the gravy simmers, prepare the mashed potato and cauliflower blend. Place both packages into a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat them for 4 to 5 minutes until warmed through.
Once everything is ready, serve the savory ground beef gravy over the mashed potato and cauliflower blend. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Serving this dish is simple but can be made a bit special with a few touches. The mashed potato and cauliflower blend provides a creamy base for the flavorful ground beef and mushroom gravy.
You can plate the mashed mixture in the center of your dish and spoon the beef and gravy over the top, allowing the rich sauce to soak into the mash. For added freshness, sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives over the top. This not only adds color but a subtle fresh note that brightens the meal.
Pair the dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to add some crunch and balance. A simple side of roasted carrots or a medley of sautéed greens also works well.
This meal can be enjoyed hot and fresh from the stove or made ahead and reheated, making it convenient for leftovers or meal prep.
Expert Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
To get the most out of this recipe, keep a few tips in mind:
- Use extra lean ground beef to reduce excess fat but still keep the meat flavorful. If you prefer a richer dish, you can use regular ground beef but drain the excess fat after browning.
- Browning the beef without stirring at first helps develop better flavor and texture by creating a caramelized crust.
- Don’t rush the onions and mushrooms. Allow them time to soften fully as this builds the foundation of flavor for your gravy.
- When adding the gravy mix and broth, stir well to avoid lumps. If lumps form, whisk gently or use a spoon to break them up.
- Adjust seasoning as you go. Taste the gravy before serving and add more salt or pepper if needed.
- If you want a thicker gravy, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering gravy gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- For the mashed potato blend, microwaving both mashed potatoes and cauliflower together saves time. You can also heat them on the stove if you prefer.
How to Store Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, proper storage is key.
Allow the ground beef and gravy mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The mashed potato and cauliflower blend should be stored separately to maintain the best texture.
Store both in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water to the gravy if it thickens too much during storage. Stir occasionally to reheat evenly.
You can also freeze both components separately for up to 2 months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight before reheating. This method allows you to enjoy this comforting meal any time you want with minimal prep.
Variations of Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes to Try
This recipe is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to your taste or dietary needs.
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. Adjust cooking times slightly to ensure the poultry is cooked through.
- If you don’t like mushrooms, try substituting with diced bell peppers or green beans for a different flavor and texture.
- Instead of brown gravy mix, make your own simple gravy using beef broth, a little flour or cornstarch, and seasonings for a more natural option.
- For a creamier mashed potato blend, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of milk before heating.
- Use purely mashed cauliflower to keep it very low calorie and low carb.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy to enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Top the dish with shredded cheese or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for an extra indulgent touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
What can I use instead of mashed cauliflower?
You can replace the cauliflower with extra mashed potatoes if you want a more traditional dish or try mashed sweet potatoes for a different flavor and color.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats easily, making it ideal for meal prep.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free gravy mix or make your own gravy without flour to keep it gluten-free.
How do I keep the mashed potatoes creamy?
Heat the mashed potatoes gently and avoid overheating. Adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating helps maintain creaminess.
Can I use regular ground beef instead of extra lean?
Yes, but you might want to drain excess fat after browning to keep the dish lighter.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers last up to 4 days in the fridge and can be frozen for 1-2 months.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or water if the gravy becomes too thick.
Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds extra lean ground beef
- 1 piece yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 packets brown gravy mix
- 3 cups beef bone broth (or any broth/liquid you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons coarse Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 24 ounces mashed potatoes (refrigerated or frozen)
- 24 ounces mashed cauliflower (refrigerated or frozen)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and let it brown for about 4 to 5 minutes without stirring.
- Break apart the beef, then add sliced onion and mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until onions are soft and beef is cooked through.
- Sprinkle brown gravy mix over the beef and vegetables, stirring to combine.
- Pour in beef broth, stirring well. Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, then bring to a simmer until gravy thickens slightly.
- While the gravy simmers, heat mashed potatoes and cauliflower in a large microwave-safe bowl for 4 to 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve the savory ground beef gravy over the mashed potato and cauliflower blend. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
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