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Meatball Casserole With Mashed Potatoes

This Meatball Casserole With Mashed Potatoes is a comforting, hearty dish combining juicy meatballs, rich marinara, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 jar marinara sauce about 24 ounces
  • 4 large potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep meatballs tender.

Shape and Cook the Meatballs

  • Roll the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

  • While the meatballs bake, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add peeled and cubed potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain well and return to pot.
  • Add butter and milk to potatoes, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Casserole

  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange cooked meatballs evenly over the sauce. Pour remaining marinara sauce over meatballs, coating well.
  • Dollop mashed potatoes over the meatballs, spreading evenly to cover. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.

Bake the Casserole

  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let cool a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Large Pot
  • Baking Dish

Notes

  • For extra moist meatballs, add a splash of milk or tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture.
  • Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffy mashed potatoes or Yukon Golds for creamier texture.
  • Rest casserole for a few minutes after baking to help it set and prevent mashed potatoes from sliding off.
  • Meatballs can be prepared ahead and frozen before assembling casserole.
  • Stir grated Parmesan into mashed potatoes for a richer flavor.