Ah, ground beef—the unsung hero of many a dinner table. I remember the first time I made a simple beef dish; the aroma filled the kitchen like a warm hug. Whether you’re a fan of juicy burgers or comforting casseroles, there’s something magical about how ground beef can transform into a hearty meal with just a few spices and a dash of creativity.
Steps
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high and cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces until no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. Aim for a slight char on the beef, then drain off any excess grease.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, allowing it to fully melt.
- Add the garlic, minced onion, and black pepper, stirring for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
- Mix in the flour and continue stirring for another minute to incorporate it well.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens, then serve promptly over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (can use low or no sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
FAQ
- What should I pair with Ground Beef and Gravy?
- Ground Beef and Gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, whether from a Crock Pot or made on the stove. It’s also great served over egg noodles, rice, or your preferred pasta.
- What can I add to enhance the dish?
- To add more substance, consider including diced onion and bell pepper to the meat. Additionally, stirring in some frozen vegetables while simmering can make the meal heartier.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or venison. If you do, you might want to swap the beef broth for chicken or vegetable broth.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
- What’s the best method to reheat Ground Beef and Gravy?
- You can reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stove. To maintain the desired consistency, consider adding a bit more beef broth when reheating.
Tips
- Enhance Flavor with Aromatics: Add some diced onion and bell pepper when cooking the ground beef for added flavor and texture. This can also help bulk up the meal.
- Experiment with Different Proteins: Don’t hesitate to switch out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or venison. If you do, consider changing the beef broth to chicken or vegetable broth for a better flavor match.
- Avoid Lumpy Gravy: When adding the beef broth, pour it slowly while continuously stirring to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, use the microwave or a skillet and add a splash of beef broth to maintain the dish’s moisture and consistency.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A good quality large skillet is essential for cooking the ground beef and making the gravy.
- Garlic Press – If fresh garlic is used, a garlic press can be helpful for mincing the garlic cloves.
- Whisk – Useful for stirring in the flour and beef broth to prevent lumps.
