If you’re craving comfort food that’s equal parts hearty and irresistibly cheesy, you have to try this Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned meatballs nestled in a creamy, luscious bed of cheesy mashed potatoes, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This dish wonderfully blends simple ingredients into something that feels special yet comforting, making it the perfect centerpiece for any family dinner or cozy gathering. Let me take you through this fantastic recipe that’s sure to become one of your favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with the basics, and this Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe is no exception. The ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole truly unforgettable.
- Ground beef (or ground turkey, 1 lb): Provides juicy, flavorful meatballs with a tender bite.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Help bind the meatballs while keeping them light and moist.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds sharp, nutty notes that deepen the meatball’s flavor.
- Chopped parsley (1/4 cup): Gives a fresh herbal kick and brightens the mixture.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatball ingredients together perfectly.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Gives a warm, savory undertone in both meatballs and mashed potatoes.
- Salt (1/2 tsp + to taste): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp + to taste): Adds a subtle spice and depth.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Used for frying the meatballs to a beautiful golden crust.
- Prepared mashed potatoes (4 cups): The creamy base that holds all the cheesy goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings sharpness and melty richness to the potato layer.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Provides gooey, luscious stretch and mild flavor.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and tangy.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Adds moisture for smooth mashed potatoes.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Gives a rich, velvety finish to the potato layer.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
- Marinara sauce (1/2 cup): A tangy, herby drizzle to elevate the whole casserole.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture forms the foundation for your juicy, flavorful meatballs.
Step 2: Form and Brown the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs—bite-sized perfection. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches for 5 to 7 minutes. Turn them occasionally to brown all sides evenly. The goal here is a delicious golden crust and cooked-through centers. Once done, set them aside to rest.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Mashed Potato Layer
In a large bowl, combine your prepared mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, sour cream, milk, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a smooth, cheesy, and flavorful mash that will cradle the meatballs perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the cheesy mashed potato mixture evenly across the bottom. Place your browned meatballs over this layer, spacing them out gently.
Step 5: Add the Top Layer and Bake
Spoon the remaining mashed potatoes over the meatballs, smoothing it out to completely cover them. Drizzle marinara sauce over the top for a tangy brightness and, if you like, sprinkle an extra handful of shredded cheese. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley just before serving is a simple, elegant touch. It brings a refreshing color contrast and a subtle herbal note that lifts all the rich flavors in the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is built to be a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables gives a lovely balance of textures and freshness. Steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would be incredible companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in oven-safe ramekins for a personalized experience. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for a touch of acidity and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the casserole before storing to retain the creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra baking time if necessary.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps the cheesy top nice and melty.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in the meatballs while still holding flavor and texture well.
Do I have to prepare the mashed potatoes from scratch?
While homemade mashed potatoes add the best creamy texture and flavor, you can absolutely use high-quality store-bought mashed potatoes if you’re short on time.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute meatballs with plant-based meatballs or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
What kind of cheese works best in this casserole?
The combination of cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully and balances sharp and mild flavors, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
Is marinara sauce necessary?
The marinara adds a tangy lift that complements the richness, but if tomato sauce isn’t your favorite, you can skip it or substitute with a little gravy or béchamel sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavors that just hit the spot every time. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, it comes together easily and always impresses. Give it a try and get ready to welcome a new favorite to your recipe rotation.
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Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Potato Meatball Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender pan-fried meatballs nestled between creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. A drizzle of marinara sauce on top adds a delicious tangy finish, making it an ideal family-friendly meal that combines the classic flavors of meatballs and cheesy potatoes in one satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Casserole
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead of time, creamy and seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (or tomato sauce)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1-inch in diameter, ensuring they are compact to hold together during cooking.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides and ensure they are cooked through. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine prepared mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, milk, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole – Base Layer: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the mashed potato mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Add Meatballs: Arrange the cooked meatballs evenly over the layer of mashed potatoes.
- Top Meatballs: Spread the remaining mashed potato mixture over the meatballs, covering them completely for a smooth top.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Drizzle marinara sauce over the top layer and sprinkle additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if using, serve hot, and enjoy your comforting casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned for the best flavor.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- Adding extra cheese on top gives a wonderfully golden and cheesy crust.
- If you prefer, you can make your own marinara sauce or use your favorite store-bought variety.
