I'm retired USAF and the chow hall made it with ground beef, I loved it. I'm originally from NC, so anything gravy is up my alley.
I have made it with ground beef, but now, I make it with Tennessee Pride hot sausage. You'll probably have to add some oil, butter or some fat of some kind, as it doesn't have too much fat in it. Then I sprinkle on some flour and cook it for a few minutes to cook the flour taste out. Add a bit of black pepper, and a very little salt, you can always add a bit after it's done. When the flour is done, and just starts to brown a little bit, pour in a 50/50 mixture of milk and water. Use real milk, not fat free. I mean if you're trying to cut fat, have a carrot instead.
Cook it until it gets thick. We serve it on my mama's country biscuits made with shortening, or tasted bread.
I add an over easy egg or 2, and some green hot sauce. That's heaven right there......