Description
This Meatball Mashed Potato Bake combines tender homemade meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, layered and baked in a flavorful marinara sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting and hearty main course perfect for family dinners or using up leftover mashed potatoes with an easy-to-make casserole that delivers classic Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and warm)
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form and cook meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until they’re browned on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Assemble the bake: Spread the warm mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the potatoes in an even layer.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top to cover.
- Bake until bubbly: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- This dish is a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes.
- Try adding spinach, sautéed onions, or mushrooms between the mashed potato layer and meatballs for extra flavor and texture.
