Mashed Potatoes and Ground Beef

This Ground Beef Mashed Potatoes recipe is the perfect weeknight meal when you're short on time but craving something hearty! It features creamy mashed potatoes made from boiled potatoes, whipped with butter and cream for a smooth texture. These fluffy potatoes are topped with savory ground beef simmered in a rich gravy that takes the dish to the next level.

The beef is seasoned with spices and herbs, making every bite burst with flavor. As it cooks, it soaks up the delicious gravy made with beef broth, onion, garlic, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, creating a sauce that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

If you prefer it lighter, omit the olive oil when cooking the beef, as the meat already contains fat.

INGREDIENTS:

For the mashed potatoes:

• 2 large potatoes or 3 medium potatoes

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

• 1cup milk (if you are lactose intolerant, use almond or soya milk)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the ground beef:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 500 gr lean ground beef

• Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make the potatoes:

• Peel and dice potatoes into equal cubes, place in a deep pot, and cover with cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

• Cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain.

• Add butter to potatoes and mash with a potato masher or a fork.

• Gradually pour in the milk and mix until you reach the desired consistency.

• Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (optional).

Make the ground beef mixture:

• While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the ground beef mixture.

• In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until it is browned and no longer pink.

• Add the onion and cook for 1 more minute, stirring well

• Combine all the spices and thoroughly stir them into the beef mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Incorporate the tomato paste and broth, stirring well.

• Add the garlic and cover to cook.

• Bring the mixture to a simmer and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a gravy-like consistency.

• Serve the mashed potatoes topped with the ground beef.

Thea's tips:
1. Dice your potatoes into similar-sized pieces so that they cook evenly. 
2. If your ground beef has a lot of fat, be sure to drain off the excess before you add the other ingredients. 
3. We like to separate our ground beef and mashed potatoes until ready to serve. Once on the plate to serve, we add the ground beef on top of the mashed potatoes. 

Why You'll Love This Recipe:
1. Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy students!
2. Customizable: Add veggies like peas or carrots, or sprinkle cheese on top.
3. Comforting: A warm hug on a plate, especially after a long day.
4.Ground Beef Mashed Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite!