Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake! This hearty and comforting dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake in no time.

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

There are so many reasons to love this Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy creates a symphony of tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

But that’s not all. This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, swap out the beef for chicken, or make it vegetarian, the options are endless.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. This bake tastes even better the next day, making it the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Vegetarian Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spicy Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the meatball mixture for a kick of heat.
• Creamy Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or milk into the mashed potatoes for a creamier texture.
• Slow Cooker Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake: Throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.

How to Make Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake

Making Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
   • Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned.
3. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
   • While the meatballs are baking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Make the Gravy:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
   • Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly, until the gravy is thickened and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Arrange the meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
   • Pour the gravy over the meatballs and mashed potatoes.
   • Top with shredded cheese and chopped green onions, if desired.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the meatball mixture, mashed potatoes, and gravy as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) before serving.
• Freeze Leftovers: This bake freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables for a nutritious side.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

• Make Ahead: You can make the bake up to 3 days in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: Reheat the bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the bake cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this bake in a slow cooker?

Yes! Just throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. You can swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey.

Is this bake gluten-free?

Yes, this bake is gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this bake?

Yes, this bake freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make this bake spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the meatball mixture for a kick of heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake. This hearty and comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch to meal prep, this bake has you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!

Print