✨ A Short, Perfect Introduction
This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is everything you want in one pan — juicy meatballs nestled into fluffy mashed potatoes and smothered in melty cheese. 🧀🥔 It’s warm, filling, and so easy to throw together. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays at home!
📋 Prep Time: 20 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: None
⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6
🔥 Calories per Serving: 410 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
➤ For the Meatballs:
- 🥩 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 🧅 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 🥚 1 egg
- 🌾 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 🧄 1 tsp garlic powder
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🌿 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)
➤ For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 🥔 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 🧈 3 tbsp butter
- 🥛 1/3 cup milk or cream
- 🧂 Salt to taste
➤ For the Topping:
- 🧀 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 🌿 Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Potatoes:
Boil cubed potatoes 🥔 in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter 🧈 and milk 🥛 until smooth and creamy. Season with salt.
2️⃣ Make the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix ground meat 🥩, onion 🧅, egg 🥚, breadcrumbs 🌾, garlic powder 🧄, parsley 🌿, salt, and pepper. Shape into 16–20 small meatballs.
3️⃣ Sear the Meatballs (Optional):
Brown the meatballs in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for 5–6 minutes to give them extra flavor. You can also skip this if baking raw.
4️⃣ Assemble the Bake:
Spread mashed potatoes into the bottom of a greased 9×13” baking dish. Nestle the meatballs on top.
5️⃣ Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle shredded cheese 🧀 over everything. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. 🔥
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley 🌿 if desired and serve hot!
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A full comforting meal in one baking dish 🎯
- Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes + savory meatballs = flavor bomb 💣
- Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers 🧆
- Customizable — add gravy, veggies, or even tomato sauce! 🍅🥦
🔥 Helpful Tips
- Add a layer of sautéed spinach or peas under the meatballs for extra veggies 🥬
- Use frozen meatballs to save time — just bake longer! 🕒
- For extra richness, stir a little cream cheese into the mashed potatoes 😍
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a full meal 🥗🍞
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