Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, until tender, for 10-15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef with mushrooms and onion over medium-high heat until no longer pink, for 6-8 minutes.

Drain any excess fat.

Stir in flour, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until blended.

Gradually stir in the beef broth, then bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, until thickened, for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pan.

Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency, adding butter, cream, and the remaining salt and pepper.

Spoon the mashed potatoes into serving bowls.

Top the mashed potatoes with the beef mixture and sprinkle with french-fried onions.

Serve hot and enjoy your Mushroom Beef Skillet with Creamy Mashed Potatoes!