Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. This dish features savory ground beef mixed with sautéed onions, all enveloped in a rich, creamy white gravy. Served over buttered noodles, it’s perfect for family dinners, brunch gatherings, or any occasion that calls for hearty satisfaction. The unique blend of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting taste of this classic Southern dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes—this gravy pairs well with various sides.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet while still delivering big flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and reheat for an effortless meal during hectic days.

Tools and Preparation

To create Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that ensure ease and efficiency in your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for browning beef and simmering gravy all in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the milk and broth together smoothly to avoid lumps in your gravy.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to your main dish.

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!

Main Ingredients

• 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 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 Pasta

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

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

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

Step 3: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the whole milk and chicken broth.
2. Whisk them together until well blended and set aside.

Step 4: Add Onions

Once the meat is half cooked:
1. Stir in the sliced onion.
2. Continue cooking until both the meat is cooked through and onions are tender.

Step 5: Make Roux

Scootch the meat mixture to one side of the pot:
1. Sprinkle flour into the empty space.
2. Whisk it together with any drippings for about 30-60 seconds to cook out raw flour taste.

Step 6: Combine with Milk Mixture

Slowly pour in the milk/broth mixture:
1. Whisk continuously to incorporate fully.
2. Allow the gravy to simmer until it thickens; then remove from heat.

Step 7: Butter Noodles

Return drained pasta to its pot:
1. Add butter while it’s still warm.
2. Stir until melted and evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve It Up

To serve:
1. Place buttered noodles onto plates or bowls.
2. Ladle generous amounts of gravy over top and enjoy!

How to Serve Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Serving Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy can transform any meal into a comforting experience. This rich and creamy gravy pairs beautifully with various sides, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Over Buttered Noodles

• A classic choice, buttered noodles serve as a perfect base for the savory gravy, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes topped with this beef gravy create a hearty dish that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

On Rice

• Serving the gravy over fluffy rice offers a different texture while still enjoying its rich taste. Perfect for a simple weeknight meal!

In a Casserole

• Use the gravy as a key ingredient in your favorite casserole recipe, adding depth and flavor to every bite.

With Fresh Bread

• A side of crusty bread or rolls is ideal for dipping into the flavorful gravy, making each meal feel more special.

As a Breakfast Topping

• Try pouring it over scrambled eggs or breakfast potatoes for a unique twist on your morning routine.

How to Perfect Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

To achieve the best results when making Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh ground beef and onions to enhance the overall flavor of your gravy.
• Cook slowly: Take your time when cooking the meat and onions; this allows their flavors to develop fully before adding other ingredients.
• Whisk consistently: When adding the milk and broth mixture, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming in your gravy.
• Adjust thickness: If your gravy is too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Season well: Taste your gravy after it’s cooked and adjust seasoning if necessary; a pinch of extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftover gravy, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

Pairing sides with Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy elevates your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options to complement this delicious dish:

1. Steamed Green Beans
   A healthy and vibrant addition that adds color and crunch to your plate.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts bring out rich flavors that work beautifully with beef gravy.
3. Cornbread Muffins
   Light and fluffy cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness alongside savory dishes.
4. Coleslaw
   A cool and tangy coleslaw balances out the richness of the gravy, creating a refreshing contrast.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory flavors, offering a nutritious option.
6. Grilled Asparagus
   Tender asparagus adds elegance to your meal while bringing its own distinct flavor profile.

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.

• Using the wrong meat: Make sure to use ground beef for the best flavor and texture. Other meats may not work as well in this recipe.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your meat properly. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the overall taste of the gravy.
• Not whisking enough: When combining milk and broth with flour, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps. A smooth gravy is key for the best experience.
• Rushing the cooking process: Allow the gravy to simmer until it thickens properly. Patience is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy consistency.
• Overcooking or undercooking the noodles: Ensure you cook your noodles just until al dente. This will help them hold up better when mixed with the gravy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow gravy to cool before sealing.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy?

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is a rich, creamy sauce made with ground beef and seasoned onions, perfect for pouring over buttered noodles.

How can I customize Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Additionally, try different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change up the taste.

Can I make Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

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

This gravy pairs wonderfully with egg noodles but also works well over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Country Beef Gravy is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile addition to your family’s dinner table. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!