Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Here’s a comforting and delicious Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake recipe that’s perfect for a hearty family meal. It combines tender meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese for a satisfying dish.

Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef & pork)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled & cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Bake:

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15-20 mins). Drain.
   • Mash with butter, milk, sour cream (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked through yet).
3. Assemble the Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish (9×13-inch or similar).
   • Arrange meatballs over the sauce.
   • Spoon remaining marinara over the meatballs.
   • Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
   • Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake & Serve:
   • Bake for 20-25 mins until cheese is bubbly and golden.
   • Broil for 1-2 mins for extra browning (optional).
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Tips:

• Make Ahead: Assemble the bake ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
• Variations: Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or herbs to the mashed potatoes.
• Sides: Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.

This dish is like a cozy deconstructed shepherd’s pie with Italian flavors—great for weeknights or potlucks! Let me know if you’d like any modifications. 😊