17 Ground Beef Gravy Mashed Potato Dinners That Even Picky Eaters Love

When it comes to making dinner, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, comforting plate of ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes. This combination brings back memories of family dinners, cozy nights in, and the satisfaction of a deliciously hearty meal. I created this post because I know how tough it can be to find recipes that please everyone, especially when you have picky eaters at the table. You want meals that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and comfort.

If you’re someone who struggles with meal planning or just wants to whip up something delicious without the fuss, this is for you. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or simply someone who craves comfort food, these recipes will make your dinner routine much easier. You’ll discover ideas that appeal to all ages and taste buds, ensuring that every member of your family leaves the table happy.

In this post, I’ve gathered 17 mouthwatering ground beef gravy and mashed potato dinners that are simple, quick, and perfect for weeknight meals. From classic dishes like beef stroganoff to fun twists like BBQ beef and mashed potato bowls, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Let’s dive into these hearty, savory dishes that even the pickiest eaters will love!

Key Takeaways

– Enjoy 17 easy recipes featuring ground beef and mashed potatoes, perfect for busy weeknights.

– Each recipe is designed to appeal to picky eaters, making mealtime stress-free.

– Discover a variety of dishes, including casseroles, skillet meals, and comforting classics.

– Many recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for quick family dinners.

– Each meal combines familiar flavors and textures, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

1. Classic Beef and Gravy with Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug, this classic beef and gravy with mashed potatoes is it! You’ll enjoy succulent ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, all drenched in a savory brown gravy. It’s served over fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up all that delicious gravy.In just about 30 minutes, you can have a comforting dinner ready. This dish pairs well with steamed green beans, adding a pop of color and extra nutrition to your plate.Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– Green beans, for serving

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Pour in the beef broth, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter until smooth.
5. Serve the beef gravy over the mashed potatoes with a side of green beans.

Tips:
– For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce to the beef while it cooks.
– Make sure to taste the gravy for seasoning adjustments.

2. Cheesy Beef Gravy Casserole

Imagine a hearty casserole that combines the comforting flavors of beef gravy and gooey cheese. That’s exactly what you get with this cheesy beef gravy casserole! It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.You’ll layer cooked ground beef in a baking dish, cover it with creamy gravy, and then top it with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Finally, you’ll blanket it all with fluffy mashed potatoes and bake until golden and bubbly.Recipe Overview:– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup beef gravy
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef; season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the cooked beef in a greased baking dish, pour gravy over the top, and sprinkle cheese.
4. Layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing it out.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on top.

Tips:
– Try using different cheese blends for varied flavors.
– Add veggies like broccoli or corn for added nutrition.

3. Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef and Gravy

Shepherd’s pie is a beloved comfort food that never fails to please. This version features ground beef paired with a rich gravy and topped with buttery mashed potatoes.Each layer melds together beautifully, creating a hearty dish perfect for any day. You can even add peas and carrots to the filling for a bright, nutritious touch!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Approximately 500 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until tender, then add the ground beef and brown.
3. Stir in tomato paste, broth, and frozen vegetables; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a baking dish, layer the beef mixture and top with mashed potatoes.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top looks golden.

Tips:
– Use leftovers for an even quicker meal.
– Top with parsley for a fresh touch.

4. Beef Stroganoff with Mashed Potatoes

Indulge in the creamy delight of beef stroganoff, perfectly paired with mashed potatoes. This dish includes tender strips of beef cooked in a rich mushroom sauce, all served over smooth mashed potatoes.It’s a comforting meal ideal for chilly evenings and can be ready in less than an hour!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon flour
– 4 cups mashed potatoes

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook beef until browned; remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms, then sprinkle with flour.
3. Gradually add beef broth and bring to a simmer, stirring until thickened.
4. Stir in sour cream, return the beef, and heat through.
5. Serve over mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– Try adding a splash of white wine for added depth.
– Serve with a sprinkle of parsley for freshness.

5. Meatloaf with Gravy and Mashed Potatoes

This classic meatloaf is enhanced with a rich gravy and served with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a favorite in many households.The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare. Plus, you can make it ahead and just reheat when it’s time to eat!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 1 hour
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup ketchup + extra for topping
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mashed potatoes

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and chopped onion. Shape it into a loaf.
3. Place in a baking dish, top with ketchup, and bake for 1 hour.
4. Serve with beef gravy and mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– Mix in grated cheese for a delicious surprise.
– Use leftover meatloaf in sandwiches for lunch!

6. Ground Beef and Mashed Potato Bake

Looking for a one-dish meal that everyone will love? This ground beef and mashed potato bake is just that! It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.Layer cooked ground beef with veggies and cover with a thick layer of mashed potatoes. Bake until everything is heated through and the top is golden. It’s a simple dinner that can also be prepped ahead of time.Recipe Overview:– Servings: 5
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 460 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain, and mix in mixed vegetables; season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread beef mixture in a greased baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and sprinkle cheese.
4. Bake for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Tips:
– Add a layer of gravy for extra flavor!
– This dish is easily customizable with different veggies and seasonings.

Fun fact: a simple ground beef and mashed potato bake turns weeknights into a kid-friendly win in under an hour. Layer, bake, and watch the veggies disappear into a creamy ground beef gravy mashed potato finish. It makes leftovers part of the meal, not a fight.

7. BBQ Beef and Mashed Potato Bowl

Elevate your mashed potato dinner with this BBQ beef twist! This bowl is a fun mix of flavors and textures, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight.Start with a base of mashed potatoes, then pile on shredded beef simmered in BBQ sauce. A sprinkle of coleslaw adds crunch, creating a meal that’s both pleasing to the eye and the palate!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 500 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb shredded beef (cooked)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup coleslaw mix
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat shredded beef and BBQ sauce on low until warmed through.
2. In bowls, create a base layer of mashed potatoes.
3. Top with BBQ beef and a handful of coleslaw.
4. Drizzle with ranch dressing if desired.

Tips:
– Experiment with different BBQ sauces for varied flavors.
– Let kids assemble their own bowls for extra fun!

8. Spicy Beef and Potato Skillet

Add some excitement to dinner with this spicy beef and potato skillet! It’s a quick dish that brings flavor to your table without a lot of hassle.Tender diced potatoes cook alongside ground beef in a spicy tomato sauce for a hearty meal. This is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
2. Add diced potatoes, tomatoes, and seasonings; stir well.
3. Cover and cook on medium heat for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips:
– Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
– A dollop of sour cream can cool things down a bit!

9. Ground Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

This variation of stroganoff features ground beef and mushrooms simmered in a creamy sauce over a bed of velvety mashed potatoes.It’s rich and savory, perfect for a special family dinner. Plus, this quick dish can be ready in under 30 minutes while still offering warmth and comfort!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 540 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 4 cups mashed potatoes

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown ground beef until cooked through; remove and set aside.
2. Sauté mushrooms until tender, then add flour, stirring to coat.
3. Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring until thickened; return beef and stir in sour cream.
4. Serve over mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– For extra flavor, add a splash of sherry or white wine.
– Fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the taste.

10. Taco Beef and Mashed Potato Layers

Spice up dinner with these taco beef and mashed potato layers! This creative dish stacks seasoned ground beef between layers of creamy mashed potatoes.It’s a fun meal that kids will enjoy, and you can customize the toppings with cheese, salsa, or avocado. Serve it in individual portions for a festive flair!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 490 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salsa and avocado for topping (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet and mix with taco seasoning.
3. In a baking dish, layer half of the mashed potatoes, followed by the cooked beef, then remaining potatoes.
4. Top with cheese and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Serve with salsa and avocado on top!

Tips:
– Use leftover taco meat for a quick meal.
– Great for repurposing mashed potato leftovers too!

11. Ground Beef and Cauliflower Mash Bake

For a lighter option, try this ground beef and cauliflower mash bake. It’s low-carb but still packed with flavor!The creamy cauliflower mash takes the place of traditional mashed potatoes, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Layer it with seasoned ground beef and bake for a wholesome family meal!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 head cauliflower, steamed and mashed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet until cooked, seasoning with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread beef in a greased baking dish and layer mashed cauliflower on top.
4. Sprinkle cheese and bake for 25 minutes.

Tips:
– Customize the seasonings based on your preference.
– Cauliflower mash can be made ahead of time.

12. Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Potatoes

Transform simple baked potatoes into a delightful meal with these ground beef and spinach stuffed potatoes! This dish is not only tasty but also a clever way to get kids to enjoy their greens.Bake the potatoes until tender, scoop out some flesh, and mix it with cooked ground beef and spinach for a flavorful filling. Top with cheese and pop them back in the oven for melty goodness!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Approximately 510 per serving

Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, brown ground beef in a skillet; add wilted spinach and mix.
4. Scoop out some potato flesh from each potato and mix it with beef and spinach.
5. Stuff the mixture back into the potatoes, top with cheese, and bake for another 15 minutes.

Tips:
– Add some sour cream on top before serving for a creamy touch.
– Feel free to experiment with other veggies!

13. Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Mash

This dish gives a nutritious twist to the classic ground beef and mashed potatoes by using sweet potatoes instead. The sweet flavor of the sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory beef.It’s an easy dinner recipe that introduces your family to new flavors without any fuss!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Boil sweet potatoes until tender; drain and mash with a sprinkle of cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Serve the beef over the sweet potato mash.

Tips:
– Top with a sprinkle of brown sugar for added sweetness.
– Use leftovers in salads or wraps for lunch!

14. Ground Beef Curry with Mashed Potatoes

Spice up your dinner with this ground beef curry served over mashed potatoes! The spices in the beef curry create a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs surprisingly well with creamy potatoes.This dish is a fun way to introduce new tastes to your family while still keeping it comforting and familiar!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 500 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion until cooked through.
2. Stir in curry powder and cook for another minute.
3. Add coconut milk, simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Serve over mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– Adjust spice levels by adding chili flakes or powder.
– Garnish each serving with cilantro for a fresh touch.

15. Sloppy Joe Mashed Potato Bowls

Add some fun to dinner with these sloppy joe mashed potato bowls! The messiness of the saucy beef mixture served over creamy mashed potatoes creates a delightful twist on a family favorite.This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned; drain excess fat.
2. Stir in ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Serve over mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– Top with shredded cheese or pickles for extra flavor!
– Use pita bread for scooping instead of utensils for a fun twist.

Did you know ground beef gravy mashed potato bowls can be ready in 30 minutes and feed a family of four? This kid-friendly twist turns quick weeknights into a crowd-pleaser, with about 480 calories per serving—perfect for busy families.

16. Ground Beef and Pea Mash

Try something different with this dish that combines ground beef with a delightful pea mash. It offers a fresh and green twist to the usual comfort food.The sweet pea mash pairs beautifully with savory beef, making it a nutritious option that still feels cozy. It’s a clever way to sneak in some veggies!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups peas (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook peas in boiling water until tender; drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked; season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve ground beef over the pea mash with a side of mashed potatoes.

Tips:
– Customize the mash with herbs like mint for a refreshing flavor.
– This dish is a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes!

17. Beef and Gravy Potato Waffles

For a fun breakfast-for-dinner option, these beef and gravy potato waffles are sure to impress! This unique twist takes classic flavors and puts them between crispy waffle layers.The savory beef and rich gravy served alongside mashed potatoes create a delightful dining experience for the whole family. It’s a playful way to enjoy comfort food!Recipe Overview:– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 500 per serving

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup beef gravy
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 cups waffle mix (prepared)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned; add beef gravy and heat through.
2. Prepare waffle batter as directed; pour into preheated waffle maker.
3. Once waffles are cooked, layer hot beef and gravy between two waffles and serve with mashed potatoes on the side.

Tips:
– Top with extra cheese or green onions for added flavor.
– This dish is perfect for a fun party meal for kids!

Ever notice how breakfast-for-dinner can win even picky eaters? Ground beef gravy mashed potato meets crispy waffles in this playful twist. Beef and gravy potato waffles are easy to love, kid-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Conclusion

With these 17 delightful ground beef gravy and mashed potato dinners, dinnertime just got a lot more exciting! Each recipe offers a unique spin on classic flavors that even the pickiest eaters will love. These family-friendly meals not only bring comfort but also convenience, ensuring you can enjoy a hearty dinner without all the fuss.

Try them out and find your favorites to keep in your weekly rotation. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some easy dinner recipes with ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes?

Looking for easy dinner recipes that feature ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes? You’re in luck! These recipes are not only simple to prepare but also satisfying for even the pickiest eaters.

Consider making a classic shepherd’s pie where you layer seasoned ground beef with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Another hit is beef and gravy casserole, combining ground beef with rich gravy and baked under a crispy potato topping. Each dish is a heartwarming comfort food idea perfect for family dinner!

How can I make mashed potatoes more appealing for kids?

Making mashed potatoes appealing for kids is all about creativity! You can start by adding fun ingredients like cheddar cheese or garlic for added flavor. Try using different textures by mixing in some cream cheese or sour cream to make them extra creamy.

Another fun tip is to shape them into fun designs using cookie cutters or serve them in colorful bowls. Pairing them with a rich ground beef gravy can also make them irresistible to little ones!

What are some family-friendly meals that include ground beef and potatoes?

Family-friendly meals featuring ground beef and potatoes are perfect for any weeknight! Think of dishes like beef stew with tender chunks of potatoes, or meat and potato skillet that cooks all in one pan for easy cleanup. You can also try loaded mashed potato bowls with ground beef, veggies, and cheese on top for a hearty dinner.

These meals not only satisfy hunger but also create a warm, inviting dining experience for everyone!

What are some quick weeknight dinners involving ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes?

When you’re short on time but want a delicious dinner, quick weeknight dinners with ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes are perfect! Try making a beef and gravy stir-fry served over instant mashed potatoes or a meatloaf with a savory gravy drizzled on top. You can also whip up a sloppy joe mixture and serve it over mashed potatoes for a twist on the classic dish.

These options are quick to prepare but still deliver that comforting flavor everyone loves!

Why are ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes considered comfort food?

Ground beef gravy and mashed potatoes are considered comfort food because they evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The combination of hearty flavors and creamy textures makes for a fulfilling meal that can lift spirits and provide a sense of satisfaction.

This classic pairing is often associated with family gatherings and home-cooked meals, creating lasting memories for many. Plus, they are versatile enough to be adapted to various tastes, making them a go-to choice for comforting family dinners!