Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal that brings together the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful meatballs, this Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole is your new go-to. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want a wholesome meal on the table with minimal fuss. Layers of juicy, seasoned meatballs nestled in rich marinara sauce, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy turkey bacon create a symphony of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole is a brilliant way to reinvent classic comfort foods into one delicious, easy-to-make dish. What makes it stand out is the combination of tender meatballs seasoned just right, creamy mashed potatoes that are perfectly whipped with butter and milk, and the savory twist of turkey bacon adding a subtle crunch. Plus, the parmesan cheese mixed into the meatball mixture enhances the depth of flavor, making every bite truly irresistible.

Not only is this casserole warm and filling, but it’s also incredibly versatile and simple to prepare. It’s a wonderful solution for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Also, if you love dishes like Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice, this casserole version will quickly become a favorite twist that feels both familiar and fresh.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce

How To Make Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. You can also bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes if you prefer. Once cooked, set the meatballs aside.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Place the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well. Return the potatoes to the pot and add the butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom. Layer half of the meatballs over the sauce. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatballs. Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly over the sauce. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped turkey bacon on top.

Repeat the layering: remaining meatballs, marinara sauce, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and turkey bacon.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Use a potato variety like Yukon Gold or Russet for creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Adding parmesan cheese to the meatball mix adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps bind the meatballs.
• For extra flavor, sauté the garlic and onion powders with the meat before forming meatballs.
• Make sure your turkey bacon is crispy before adding it to the casserole to maintain texture.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave—cover with foil to keep moisture in.
• Try using low-fat milk or a milk alternative if you want a lighter version of the mashed potatoes.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian version: Replace ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can be stirred into the mashed potatoes or sprinkled on top before baking.
• Swap Turkey Bacon: Use smoked sausage or regular bacon if preferred for a different smoky flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them and add an extra egg to bind the meatballs.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain the casserole’s texture and prevents it from drying out.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and mashed potatoes in advance, assemble the casserole, then refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

You can substitute turkey bacon with regular pork bacon, smoked sausage, or even omit it entirely if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, crispy tempeh or smoked mushrooms work well too.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just prepare them according to the package instructions and use them to layer in the casserole.

Conclusion

This Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole is a fantastic way to bring together two classic comfort foods into one hearty, delicious dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, offering layers of flavor and texture that everyone will enjoy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty, creamy bite!

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