Craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than this mouthwatering ground beef and gravy recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can have a delectable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This simple yet satisfying recipe showcases the rich flavors of ground beef simmered in a silky, flavorful gravy – a true taste of classic American comfort food.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy 30-minute preparation time
- Budget-friendly ground beef as the star ingredient
- Savory, comforting flavors perfect for a family meal
- Versatile dish that can be served with various side dishes
- Leftovers reheat easily for convenient next-day lunches
Why This Quick Ground Beef and Gravy is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This ground beef and gravy recipe is great for affordable meals and weeknight dinners. It’s comforting, kid-friendly, and easy to make. Plus, it’s budget-friendly.
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Ground beef is cheap, making this dish a smart choice for saving money. The gravy, made with simple ingredients, adds a special touch. It turns this into a cozy affordable meal.
Time-Saving Kitchen Tips
- This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Using ground beef makes cooking faster than with other meats.
- The gravy is quick to make, so you don’t have to simmer for hours.
Family-Friendly Meal Option
This kid-friendly dish is loved by everyone. The beefy flavor and creamy gravy are a hit. It’s a reliable time-saving recipe for busy parents.
This quick ground beef and gravy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners. It’s affordable, convenient, and loved by families. Enjoy a cozy, time-saving meal that’s easy on the wallet and pleases everyone.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef and Gravy
Making a tasty ground beef and gravy dish needs the right mix of ingredients. At its core is ground beef. Choose a mix of lean and fatty beef for the best flavor and texture.
Beef broth is key for a rich, velvety gravy. It boosts the beef flavor and makes the gravy smooth. Adding flour helps thicken the gravy into a creamy sauce.
Seasonings bring out the dish’s true flavor. Use seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. These add depth and make the dish comforting and satisfying.
Keep pantry staples like Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper ready. They add a subtle complexity to the gravy’s flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious ground beef and gravy dish. It will surely delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | The foundation of the dish, providing the main protein and flavor. |
| Beef broth | The liquid base for the gravy, adding depth and richness. |
| Flour | The thickening agent that transforms the gravy into a velvety sauce. |
| Seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or rosemary) | Enhancing the overall flavor and aroma of the dish. |
| Pantry staples (Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper) | Adding balance and complexity to the gravy. |
By choosing and using these essential ingredients, you’re on your way to a delicious ground beef and gravy dish. It’s sure to please everyone.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Guaranteed Success
Learning to make a tasty ground beef and gravy dish is simpler than you think. Our guide will help you make a comforting meal quickly. Here are the key steps to cook like a pro.
Browning the Meat Perfectly
To start, brown the meat perfectly. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. When the oil shimmers, add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Cook the beef, stirring now and then, until it’s browned and done, about 5-7 minutes.
Creating Silky Smooth Gravy
Now, focus on the gravy. In the same pan, mix flour with a few tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells nutty. Slowly add beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Let the gravy simmer until it’s thick, about 5-10 minutes.
Seasoning and Final Touches
- When the gravy is thick, season it well. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and any other seasonings you like, like garlic or onion powder.
- Check the gravy’s taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This ensures it’s delicious.
- Return the browned ground beef to the pan. Gently mix it into the gravy.
With these easy steps, you’ll make a ground beef and gravy dish everyone will love. Serve it with your favorite sides for a cozy meal any day.
Best Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions
Pairing the delicious ground beef and gravy with the right side dishes can make a big difference. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something more balanced, there are plenty of options.
Starchy Sides
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a natural companion, soaking up the savory gravy with ease.
- Fluffy rice also makes an excellent base, providing a neutral canvas for the flavorful beef and gravy.
Vegetable Accompaniments
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli can add a nutritious element to the meal.
- A fresh side salad with crisp greens and a light dressing can balance out the richness of the dish.
When it comes to presentation, consider serving the ground beef and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. Add a colorful array of vegetables to the mix. This creates a visually appealing and well-rounded complete meal idea that is sure to satisfy the whole family.
| Side Dish | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | Classic comfort food, soaks up gravy |
| Rice | Neutral base, complements the savory beef |
| Vegetables (e.g., green beans, carrots, broccoli) | Adds nutrition and visual appeal |
| Fresh side salad | Balances the richness of the dish |
By exploring these side dish options and serving suggestions, you can transform your ground beef and gravy into a well-rounded, complete meal idea that the whole family will enjoy.
Storage Tips and Reheating Methods
Proper storage is key to enjoying your leftover ground beef and gravy. Once cooled, transfer the dish to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the food quality high and ensures safety.
When reheating, you have a couple of options. For the best results, reheat on the stovetop. Heat the leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method keeps the gravy together and the meat moist.
Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. But, stir it frequently and heat in short intervals. This prevents overcooking.
If you’re meal prepping, the dish also freezes well. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using the stovetop or microwave methods. With these tips, you can enjoy the dish’s comforting flavors again and again.
FAQ
What makes this ground beef and gravy recipe so perfect for busy weeknights?
This recipe is great for busy weeknights because it’s quick and easy. It takes only 30 minutes to make. It’s also affordable and loved by everyone, making it perfect for family meals.
What are the essential ingredients needed to make the perfect ground beef and gravy?
You’ll need ground beef, beef broth, flour, onions, garlic, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients create a tasty dish that’s easy to make.
How do I ensure the ground beef is browned perfectly and the gravy is smooth and creamy?
Brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, using a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. For smooth gravy, whisk flour into the drippings, then add beef broth slowly, stirring constantly. Simmering it a bit will make it just right.
What are some tasty side dish options to serve with the ground beef and gravy?
Try creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or a green salad with the dish. The gravy also goes well with roasted veggies like carrots and green beans. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a full meal.
How should I store leftovers and reheat the ground beef and gravy?
Cool the leftovers, then put them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding beef broth to keep the gravy smooth.