🥩 Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important part in building deep, layered flavor and texture.

For the Beef & Gravy

• 2.5 – 3 pounds beef chuck roast – The star of the dish; well-marbled and becomes fork-tender when slow-simmered.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Coats the beef to help with browning and naturally thickens the gravy.
• 1 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the beef’s flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the roast to a golden crust and adding flavor.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped – Provides subtle sweetness and earthy balance.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Contributes aromatic flavor to the base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Deepens the savory profile with aromatic richness.
• 4 cups beef broth – The meaty base of the gravy.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds body, color, and umami depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme & 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Classic herbs that bring warmth and comfort.
• 2 bay leaves – Infuses a subtle herbal note throughout the gravy.

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered – Naturally creamy and buttery, ideal for smooth mash.
• 1/2 cup milk or cream – Adds richness and silky texture.
• 4 tablespoons butter – For buttery flavor and smoothness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To perfectly season the potatoes.

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps for a flawless Sunday dinner every time.

1. Prepare and Coat the Beef (5 minutes)
   Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the roast so it’s evenly coated — this creates a crust and helps thicken the gravy later.
2. Sear for Deep Flavor (10 minutes)
   Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden (about 3–4 minutes per side). This step locks in flavor and creates fond — the browned bits that make the gravy rich. Remove roast and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base (8 minutes)
   In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (5–7 minutes). Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Liquid Gold (3 minutes)
   Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot — that’s concentrated flavor. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Slow Simmer to Tender Perfection (2.5–3 hours)
   Return the seared roast to the pot, cover, and simmer on low for 2.5–3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and shreddable.
6. Thicken the Gravy (5 minutes)
   Remove the roast and bay leaves. For a smooth gravy, lightly puree the vegetables with an immersion blender, or mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water and whisk into the simmering liquid until thickened to your liking.
7. Cook the Perfect Mashed Potatoes (20 minutes)
   While the beef rests, place peeled & quartered Yukon Gold potatoes into cold water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender (15–20 minutes). Drain well.
8. Mash to Creamy Goodness (5 minutes)
   Return potatoes to the pot. Add milk or cream and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Shred and Serve (2 minutes)
   Shred the rested beef with two forks. Plate a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, mound shredded beef over the top, and ladle hot gravy over everything.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfection

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: They’re naturally creamy so you’ll need less butter and cream for a rich texture.
• Low and slow wins: Don’t rush the simmer — the long cook time is what turns chuck roast tender and flavorful.
• Brown = Flavor: A proper sear creates fond that makes the gravy taste deep and savory.
• Immersion blender trick: Partially pureeing the cooked vegetables in the braising liquid gives you a silky gravy without added thickeners.
• Make ahead: Flavors deepen if refrigerated overnight — reheat gently and stir in a splash of broth if the gravy is too thick.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Round out this hearty meal with simple, complementary sides:

• Roasted green beans or buttered peas for color and freshness.
• Warm dinner rolls to soak up the gravy.
• A crisp Caesar salad for contrasting crunch.
• Finish with apple pie or chocolate cake for a classic Sunday feast.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sunday Dinner Style Beef & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes is beloved because it’s both simple and spectacular. No fancy ingredients required — just time, patience, and a good pot. Each bite delivers nostalgic comfort and deeply satisfying flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes every Sunday feel like home.