Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake
A comforting and hearty casserole featuring creamy mashed potatoes and juicy meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey cheese.
Ingredients
For the mashed potatoes
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped Creating a creamy and fluffy mash
- 2 tbsp butter For that rich and velvety consistency
- 1/4 cup milk or cream Adding a luscious depth to the potatoes
- to taste Salt & pepper To enhance all those comforting flavors
For the meatballs
- 500 g ground beef Providing hearty satisfaction in each bite
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Ensuring the meatballs stay tender yet firm
- 1 egg Acting as a binding agent for those juicy meatballs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Delivering aromatic sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Providing that unmistakable flavor boost
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried) For a touch of herbal brightness
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Introducing a nutty richness
For assembly
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce, tomato sauce, or gravy Drowning everything in savory goodness
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese Creating a gooey, melty topping that brings everything together
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain and mash them with butter, adding milk or cream for that perfect creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper, and then shape into meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat or partially bake them in the oven until mostly cooked through.
- Spread the creamy mashed potatoes in a baking dish as a base layer.
- Arrange the browned meatballs over the mashed potatoes.
- Pour the marinara sauce generously over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over everything.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier mash. Experiment with different types of cheese. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the mashed potatoes for a warm undertone.