Braised Beef with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
This Braised Beef with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any cozy meal. The tender beef is slow-cooked to perfection in savory beef broth and aromatic herbs. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is a hearty and satisfying experience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. Serve with a garnish of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Braised Beef:
2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast or short ribs
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth (replace the red wine with more broth)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Mashed Potatoes:
2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
Salt (to taste)
For the Gravy:
Drippings from the beef
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
3. Braise the Beef: Pour in the beef broth (instead of red wine) and deglaze the pot by scraping the browned bits from the bottom. Add thyme, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Return the beef to the pot, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and braise in the preheated oven for 2.5-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: While the beef cooks, peel and boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash the potatoes. Stir in butter, heavy cream, and salt until smooth and creamy.
5. Make the Gravy: After removing the beef from the pot, strain the drippings into a saucepan. Heat over medium and whisk in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in beef broth and simmer until thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Plate the mashed potatoes, top with shredded beef, and drizzle with gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal of braised beef with mashed potatoes and gravy!
