Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

If you’ve ever craved comfort food in its absolute finest form, then look no further—this Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is a game-changer. Think of it as a cozy, cheesy casserole where crispy meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes come together in perfect harmony. The rich, savory flavors in this dish are incredibly satisfying, and each bite is packed with hearty goodness that’ll make you feel like you’re being wrapped in a warm hug. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to put your feet up, savor every bite, and share with loved ones. Trust me, this one’s going to be a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Here’s why this dish will quickly become a go-to:

Comfort Food at Its Best

Mashed potatoes? Check. Meatballs? Check. Melted cheese? Check. This dish has everything you want in a comforting, all-in-one meal.

Hearty and Filling

It’s the kind of dish that leaves you feeling satisfied but not overly stuffed. The meatballs add protein and flavor, while the mashed potatoes offer the perfect, creamy base.

Easy to Make

This is an easy-to-follow recipe that will make you look like a culinary pro without requiring a ton of effort. You’ll love how simple it is to pull together.

Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or prepping for a potluck, this bake is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Customizable

You can tweak the recipe by swapping in different meats, adding extra veggies, or using your favorite cheese. Make it your own!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or your choice of meat, such as turkey or chicken)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

For the Bake:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix everything together until fully combined, but don’t overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. While the meatballs are cooking, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and sour cream (if using).
4. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked meatballs on the bottom.
3. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatballs, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes.
5. (Optional) Drizzle a little marinara sauce on top of the cheese for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 540
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to make it even more of a meal, here are a few suggestions for sides:

Crisp Green Salad

Pair with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make a perfect side to add color and balance to the meal.

Garlic Bread

A slice of warm garlic bread is always a welcome companion to a cheesy, comforting dish like this one.

A Refreshing Drink

Serve with a chilled glass of lemonade, iced tea, or even a light red wine for a well-rounded meal.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

This dish can be made ahead of time! You can prepare the meatballs, mashed potatoes, and even assemble the bake the day before. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it for a little longer since it will be cold.

Use Ground Turkey or Chicken

For a leaner version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. It’ll still be juicy and flavorful, but with less fat.

Add Some Veggies

For a little extra nutrition, try adding some steamed veggies like peas, spinach, or corn between the meatballs and mashed potatoes. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens!

Cheese Variations

Feel free to use other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for a different twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I freeze this dish?

A1: Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Q2: Can I make this without meatballs?

A2: Of course! You can use cooked chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian meatball substitute for a meatless version.

Q3: How can I make the mashed potatoes even creamier?

A3: For extra creaminess, use cream cheese or half-and-half in place of some or all of the milk.

Q4: What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs in the meatballs?

A4: You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

Q5: Can I make this dish in individual servings?

A5: Yes! You can make smaller portions in ramekins for a more personalized presentation. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q6: How can I add more flavor to the meatballs?

A6: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce will also add depth.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A7: To make it gluten-free, swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Q8: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

A8: You can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch, but homemade mashed potatoes are always better in terms of texture and flavor!

Q9: How do I store leftovers?

A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q10: Can I add cheese to the meatballs?

A10: Yes! Mixing cheese into the meatball mixture, like mozzarella or Parmesan, will add an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is everything you crave in a comforting meal—hearty, cheesy, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or just in the mood for something cozy, this bake is a sure way to impress. Easy to prepare, customizable, and so filling, it’s a dish everyone will love. Get ready to indulge in this ultimate comfort food!

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