This meatball and mashed potato casserole is so delicious that you’ll want to make it all the time. The combination of perfectly seasoned meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish. Follow these steps to create a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 5 large potatoes
- 500 grams ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 pinch black pepper (divided)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic flakes
- 100 grams breadcrumbs
- 1 whole egg
- 1/2 onion, chopped into small cubes
- Parsley to taste
- Wheat flour (for coating)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 200 milliliters tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 200 grams grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the 5 large potatoes into evenly sized pieces.
- Transfer the potatoes to a large saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and let them cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of ground beef, 1 teaspoon of salt, a pinch of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried garlic flakes, 100 grams of breadcrumbs, 1 whole egg, 1/2 chopped onion, and parsley to taste.
- Mix everything well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
- Coat each meatball in wheat flour.
- Fry the Meatballs:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the meatballs in batches until they are golden brown on all sides. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Once fried, transfer the meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and transfer them to a large bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a medium baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Place the fried meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Pour 200 milliliters of tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle 200 grams of grated mozzarella cheese over the entire dish.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Try using cheddar, gouda, or fontina cheese for a different flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the tomato sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can be added to the meatball mixture or sprinkled on top before baking for extra aroma and taste.
- Sauce Options: For a creamier version, use a béchamel or cheese sauce instead of tomato sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: Rich in vitamins C and B6, and a good source of potassium and fiber.
- Ground Beef: Provides high-quality protein, iron, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Offers calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Tomato Sauce: Contains vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene, which are beneficial for heart health.
This meatball and mashed potato casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the best of both worlds – savory meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this ultimate meatball and mashed potato casserole. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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