Name: Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Mashed Potatoes:; Potatoes (gold or russet); Unsalted butter; Whole milk; Salt and pepper to taste; For the Meatballs:; Ground beef; 1 large egg; Finely chopped onion; Fresh parsley, chopped; Dried oregano; Salt and black pepper; Additional Ingredients:; Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); Smoked mozzarella cheese, grated

The Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines tender meatballs nestled in creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate this recipe for its simplicity and versatility. It brings together classic comfort foods—meatballs and mashed potatoes—into a single, easy-to-prepare casserole that's both filling and flavorful. The addition of marinara sauce and melted cheese adds a delightful Italian twist, making it a go-to meal for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes (gold or russet)
- Unsalted butter
- Milk (whole preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef
- Large egg
- Finely chopped onion
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Dried oregano
- Salt and ground black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Smoked mozzarella cheese, grated

Directions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Place the potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous amount of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the water, add butter and warm milk to the potatoes, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Make the Meatballs:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Arrange the baked meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Sprinkle grated smoked mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
Bake:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a slight golden hue.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, and the cooking time is around 45 minutes, making the total time approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

Cheese Options: If smoked mozzarella isn't available, I use regular mozzarella or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Sauce Alternatives: Sometimes, I substitute marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo or a spicy arrabbiata to change things up.
Vegetable Additions: I like to incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the mashed potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place a portion in the microwave until heated through or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs for this recipe?

Yes, I often use pre-cooked store-bought meatballs to save time. I just ensure they are fully thawed before assembling the casserole.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! I assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze the Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake?

Yes, I freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. I wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

I find that a simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this hearty dish well, adding freshness and balance to the meal.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, I ensure that all ingredients, including the marinara sauce and any seasonings, are certified gluten-free. I also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if adding them to the meatballs.

Conclusion

The Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is a delightful fusion of comforting flavors that brings warmth to any dining table. Its creamy, cheesy, and savory layers make it a family favorite, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Enjoy crafting this hearty casserole and sharing it with loved ones.