Creamy Potatoes with Juicy Meatballs and Melted Cheese

There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty dish of tender potatoes, flavorful meatballs, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep—it’s satisfying, easy to make, and packed with delicious flavors. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making this crowd-pleasing dish, along with tips for perfect results every time.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Potatoes:

• 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra richness)

• 2 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)

For Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (extra for melting)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 20-24 total).

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). They don’t need to be fully cooked yet—just seared for flavor. Set aside on a plate.

Time: 15 minutes

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Potato Mixture

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. In a large bowl, mix the sliced potatoes, onions, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg.

3. Pour the heavy cream over the potatoes and toss gently to coat.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Layer half of the creamy potato mixture in the baking dish.

2. Place the seared meatballs evenly on top.

3. Add the remaining potatoes over the meatballs.

4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.

2. Remove the foil, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Total Baking Time: 55-60 minutes

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

3. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

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Tips for Success

• Meatball Variations: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Cheese Options: Try Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish (without baking) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add 10 extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

• Crispy Top: For extra browning, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end (watch closely to prevent burning).

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Why This Dish Works

This recipe combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with juicy, herb-infused meatballs for the ultimate comfort food. The heavy cream keeps the potatoes tender, while the double layer of cheese adds richness. The meatballs provide a protein-packed punch, making this a complete meal in one dish.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

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Final Thoughts

This Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese dish is a guaranteed hit—whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The layers of flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness make it irresistible. Try it out, and watch it become a family favorite!