2. Make the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 16–18 meatballs total).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet, as they’ll finish baking in the sauce.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Mash the boiled potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Bake
- Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the browned meatballs over the mashed potatoes.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Dollop the remaining mashed potatoes over the top, spreading gently to cover most of the sauce layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra browning (watch closely to avoid burning).
7. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this comforting, cheesy masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for extra indulgence.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh basil for added flair.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Store-Bought Meatballs: Save time by using pre-made frozen or refrigerated meatballs if you’re short on time.
- Add Veggies: Stir diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the marinara sauce for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bake up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the cheese topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining creamy mashed potatoes, savory meatballs, and melty cheese into one irresistible dish. With its layers of flavor and cozy textures, it’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a gathering. Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a new twist on classic comfort food, this bake delivers big-time satisfaction.
So grab your ingredients, layer up those flavors, and bake your way to cheesy, meaty perfection. One bite of this rich, comforting casserole, and you’ll understand why it’s a must-make for any occasion! 🍲🥩