Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food recipe: Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake. This delicious dish combines juicy meatballs, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. Remove them from the oven and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the potatoes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Arrange half of the cooked potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the meatballs, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour half of the marinara sauce over the cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meatballs, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!
Variations:
There are many ways to customize this Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Veggie Delight:
Add your favorite vegetables to the bake, such as sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Simply layer them with the potatoes and meatballs before adding the cheese and sauce.
2. Spicy Kick:
If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the meatball mixture. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the top before baking.
3. Italian Twist:
Give this dish an Italian twist by using Italian sausage instead of ground beef for the meatballs. You can also substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce.
Tips:
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake:
1. Use Lean Ground Beef:
For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or a mixture of lean ground beef and ground turkey. This will reduce the fat content without compromising the flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture:
Mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
3. Precook the Potatoes:
Parboiling the potatoes before baking ensures they are perfectly tender when the dish is done. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
4. Let it Rest:
Allow the Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This will help the flavors blend and make it easier to serve.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake recipe. With its juicy meatballs, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or served at a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, dig in, and savor every cheesy bite!
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bake a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply follow the instructions, allowing for a few extra minutes of baking time.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or a combination of cheeses would work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs if you’re short on time. Just make sure they are fully cooked before layering them in the bake.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy the Cheesy Meatball & Potato Bake and savor the comforting flavors it brings to your table.
