Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to any table. This creamy, savory gravy, enriched with ground beef and sautéed onions, is perfect for family dinners or cozy brunches. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether served over buttered noodles or alongside mashed potatoes, this classic Southern dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of ground beef and creamy gravy creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty dish, making it a great choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over noodles, rice, or even biscuits for a delightful twist on traditional comfort food.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe lets you create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having these essentials will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and making sauces; its even heat distribution ensures consistent cooking.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when creating the gravy to avoid lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to replicating this delicious gravy every time.

Ingredients

Grandma’s country beef gravy features ground beef and sautéed onions in a thick creamy white gravy, served over buttered noodles. This classic Southern country gravy will soon be a mainstay on your family’s comfort food menu too!

For the Gravy Base

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 white onion (peeled & thinly sliced)
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

For Thickening the Gravy

• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth

For Serving

• 1 pkg medium egg noodles
• 4 tbsp butter

How to Make Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While cooking the pasta:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add canola oil once hot.
3. Add ground beef along with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
4. Stir everything together, breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Step 3: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Combine whole milk and chicken broth.
2. Whisk together until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 4: Add Onions

Once the meat is half cooked:
1. Stir in sliced onions.
2. Continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Scootch the meat to one side of the pot:
1. Add flour directly into the pot with drippings.
2. Whisk together until evenly combined.
3. Allow mixture to cook for 30-60 seconds.

Step 6: Create the Gravy

Slowly pour in the milk/broth mixture while whisking continuously:
1. Allow the gravy to simmer until it thickens slightly.
2. Remove from heat once desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Butter the Noodles

Return drained pasta to its pot:
1. Add butter to warm noodles.
2. Stir until melted and evenly mixed throughout.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

To serve:
1. Plate buttered noodles on each dish or bowl.
2. Ladle generous portions of gravy over top.

Enjoy your homemade Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy!

How to Serve Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It pairs wonderfully with various sides and can be enjoyed in different ways.

Over Buttered Egg Noodles

• This classic combination allows the gravy to soak into the noodles for a rich flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent twist that’s perfect for family gatherings.

In a Bowl with Crusty Bread

• Ladle the gravy into a bowl and serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping—great for soaking up every last drop!

On a Biscuit

• Pour the gravy over freshly baked biscuits for a delightful breakfast or brunch option that feels like a warm hug.

As a Filling for Shepherd’s Pie

• Use it as a base filling, topped with mashed potatoes, for a comforting shepherd’s pie that everyone will love.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Add some roasted vegetables on the side to balance out the richness of the gravy while adding color and nutrients.

How to Perfect Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Perfecting Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy takes just a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ground beef and onions enhance flavor and texture, making your gravy irresistible.
• Whisk continuously: When adding milk and broth, whisk consistently to prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go! You can always add more salt or pepper, but it’s hard to fix an overly seasoned dish.
• Simmer thoroughly: Allow the gravy to simmer long enough for flavors to meld together. This step creates depth in taste.
• Don’t rush the flour: Letting the flour cook briefly before adding liquids develops its flavor, giving your gravy an authentic taste.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to explore additional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra layers of flavor in your gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Green Beans Almondine
   A light yet flavorful side, sautéed green beans with almonds add crunch and freshness to your plate.
2. Cornbread
   Soft cornbread is perfect for soaking up gravy, providing both sweetness and texture alongside your main dish.
3. Coleslaw
   The crispness and tang of coleslaw contrast beautifully with rich gravy, offering a refreshing bite at every mouthful.
4. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while complementing the creamy texture of the gravy nicely.
5. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that balances out savory flavors in your meal—a fun twist!
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts provide a slightly bitter yet savory contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
7. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a lighter base under your hearty beef gravy without sacrificing flavor.
8. Buttered Corn
   Sweet buttered corn offers brightness and pairs well with gravy, creating harmony on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your gravy turns out perfect every time.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave your gravy bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the ground beef for too long can dry it out. Monitor cooking time closely and remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Not Whisking Properly: Failing to whisk the flour into the drippings can create lumps in your gravy. Whisk vigorously to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold milk or broth can cause the gravy to seize up. Always use room temperature ingredients for a creamy texture.
• Neglecting the Noodles: Forgetting to butter your noodles can make them stick together. Toss them with butter immediately after draining for a flavorful finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover your dish with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy?

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is a rich and creamy sauce made with ground beef and served over noodles, perfect for comforting meals.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying the same delicious flavors.

How can I customize Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy?

Feel free to add mushrooms or herbs like thyme for extra depth of flavor, making this dish uniquely yours!

What do I serve with Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy?

This gravy pairs wonderfully with buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or even rice for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. With various options for customization, you’ll find that everyone will love this comforting dish. Give it a try and enjoy creating your family’s new favorite comfort food!

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