Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you combine juicy meatballs, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, you get the ultimate comfort food. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, the potatoes bake up soft and buttery, and the melted cheese ties everything together in one delicious casserole-style meal.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can prepare it in a skillet, bake it as a casserole, or even make individual servings in ramekins. I once tried layering the potatoes scalloped-style with cream before topping with meatballs and cheese, and it turned into a luxurious, almost gratin-like dish. Whether you serve it with a simple salad or a side of crusty bread, this recipe always feels like a warm, home-cooked hug.
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Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese – A Hearty and Comforting Family Meal
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese is a hearty comfort food dish featuring juicy baked meatballs nestled in creamy mashed potatoes, layered with melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a filling, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until fork tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Arrange baked meatballs on top of the potatoes.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
- Try using a mix of cheeses like provolone or gouda for variety.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
The base for the meatballs, adding richness and juiciness.
Breadcrumbs
Help bind the meatball mixture while keeping it tender.
Egg
Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Onion
Finely grated or chopped onion adds moisture and flavor.
Garlic
Brings a savory depth to the meatball mixture.
Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens the flavor and balances the richness.
Salt and black pepper
Basic seasonings that enhance every layer of the dish.
Potatoes
Sliced thin or cubed, they create the hearty, starchy base.
Olive oil or butter
Used for sautéing and adding richness to the potatoes.
Cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
Melted cheese brings creaminess and that irresistible golden topping.
Heavy cream or milk (optional)
Adds creaminess if you prefer a more gratin-style dish.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and shape into meatballs. Brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little oil until golden on all sides, then set aside.
Meanwhile, slice or cube the potatoes. In the same skillet, cook the potatoes with butter or olive oil until lightly golden but not fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
Layer the potatoes in the baking dish, add the meatballs on top, and pour in a splash of cream or milk if using. Sprinkle generously with cheese.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, baking requires 30 minutes, making the total time approximately 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or in the microwave in shorter bursts. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Cheesy Casserole Style
Add a layer of béchamel sauce or cream before baking for a richer dish.
Mediterranean Twist
Use feta cheese, oregano, and roasted red peppers for a Greek-inspired flavor.
Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the meatball mix.
Loaded Baked Potato Style
Top with bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream after baking.
Italian Version
Add marinara sauce beneath the cheese for a lasagna-like effect.
Healthy Swap
Use ground turkey or chicken and replace cream with broth for a lighter version.
Scalloped Potato Layering
Slice potatoes thinly and layer with cheese and cream before adding meatballs.
Vegetable Boost
Mix in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Garlic Butter Upgrade
Brush the potatoes with garlic butter before baking for extra flavor.
Double-Cheese Delight
Mix Parmesan into the meatballs and mozzarella on top for layers of cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, just thaw them first or adjust the baking time.
Do the potatoes need to be pre-cooked?
Partially cooking them ensures they bake through properly.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, they add a sweeter flavor and pair well with cheese.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar adds sharpness.
Conclusion
Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese is a comfort food classic that combines three beloved ingredients into one hearty dish. With juicy meatballs, creamy potatoes, and golden melted cheese, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Whether you stick to the simple version or explore one of the many variations, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite you’ll turn to again and again.