Braised Beef with Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Braised Beef with Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

Braised beef is a rich and comforting dish made by slow-cooking tender beef in a savory broth with vegetables and aromatic herbs. Served over creamy mashed potatoes, this delicious meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and sure to become a family favorite. The savory gravy adds a layer of flavor that’s perfect for soaking into the mashed potatoes, making every bite indulgent.

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

3-4 lbs chuck roast (or short ribs)

Salt and black pepper (to taste)

2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 carrots, peeled and chopped

2 celery ribs, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups beef broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 sprigs rosemary

2 sprigs thyme

2 bay leaves

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup heavy cream

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Beef:
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly.

4. Deglaze and Braise:
Pour in 3 cups of beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, cover, and braise in a 325°F (163°C) oven or over low heat on the stovetop for 2-3 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper.

6. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the beef and strain the sauce (optional). Reduce the sauce on the stovetop for a thicker consistency, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).

7. Serve:
Serve the braised beef over mashed potatoes with vegetables, drizzling the sauce generously over the dish.

Here are the benefits of the Braised Beef with Gravy over Mashed Potatoes recipe:

1. Rich in Protein and Iron

The beef, particularly chuck roast or short ribs, provides a significant amount of protein and iron, which are essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.

2. Comforting and Hearty

This dish is the ultimate comfort food. The tender, slow-cooked beef in savory gravy combined with creamy mashed potatoes creates a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold nights or when you’re craving something filling and satisfying.

3. Packed with Vegetables

With carrots, celery, and onions in the beef braise, this recipe sneaks in some nutritious vegetables, providing vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. These veggies contribute to a balanced diet, promoting digestion and overall well-being.

4. Great for Family Dinners

It’s a family favorite, easy to prepare, and perfect for large groups. The recipe is great for family dinners, special occasions, or holiday meals, ensuring everyone enjoys a comforting and satisfying dish.

5. Source of Healthy Fats

The butter and heavy cream in the mashed potatoes provide healthy fats that contribute to improved brain function and energy levels. These fats also help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A and D.

6. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences. For example, use low-sodium broth or opt for a vegetarian alternative (such as mushroom-based broth and a vegetable protein source) to make it more inclusive for different diets.

7. Promotes Satiety

The combination of tender beef and creamy potatoes provides both protein and carbs, making it a balanced meal that helps promote satiety, keeping you full longer and reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks.

8. Easy to Make and Cook

This recipe is simple to prepare with minimal ingredients. The slow-cooking process allows you to set it and forget it, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays or weekend dinners.

9. Comforting Gravy Enhances Flavor

The homemade gravy made from the braising liquid is packed with flavor and adds an indulgent touch to the dish. It enhances the taste of the beef and potatoes, turning a simple meal into a flavorful masterpiece.

These benefits highlight why this recipe is not just delicious, but also a nutritious and satisfying choice for various occasions.