This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food casserole, combining tender meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, savory tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s like a deconstructed shepherd’s pie meets Italian-inspired flavors, making it hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy mashed potatoes, juicy meatballs, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients or adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and bake when ready for stress-free cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 medium Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
- Boil the potatoes for the mashed potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
