Savory Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake Recipe

Introduction

Comfort food at its finest, the Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is a dish that combines two beloved classics into one hearty meal. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying dinner, this bake is sure to please everyone at the table.

The rich flavors of seasoned meatballs meld beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, creating a dish that's both filling and comforting. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or simply indulge in a cozy night in.

Perfect for any day of the week, this recipe allows for some creative flair in the kitchen while ensuring you have a satisfying meal ready to serve.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the meat mixture into meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the mashed potatoes if you haven't already. In a large bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes with sour cream and milk, mixing until smooth and creamy.
6. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the baked meatballs evenly over the sauce.
7. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatballs, spreading them evenly to cover. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the mashed potatoes.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
9. Bake in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

What if my meatballs are too dry?

If your meatballs turn out too dry, consider adding a bit more milk or sour cream to the mashed potatoes, or incorporating more moisture into the meatball mixture next time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer.

What if my mashed potatoes are lumpy?

If your mashed potatoes are lumpy, use a hand mixer or potato masher to achieve a smoother texture.

Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Yes, you can add cooked vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers between the layers for added nutrition.

What if I want a spicier version?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a kick.

How can I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

Simply halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

What if my meatballs are overcooked?

If your meatballs become overcooked, they may dry out. Ensure to keep an eye on them while baking, especially during the last few minutes.

Conclusion

The Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Whether served on a chilly evening or at a casual gathering, this dish is perfect for making memories over a shared meal. Enjoy every bite!

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Savory Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake Recipe

Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 4 cups mashed potatoes prepared
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
• Form the meat mixture into meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.
• While the meatballs are baking, prepare the mashed potatoes if you haven't already. In a large bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes with sour cream and milk, mixing until smooth and creamy.
• In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the baked meatballs evenly over the sauce.
• Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatballs, spreading them evenly to cover. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the mashed potatoes.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
• Bake in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.