Cheesy Meatball and Potato Bake

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For the Potato Bake

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
3. Mix gently until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing because it can make the meatballs tough.
4. Shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter. You should get approximately 18 to 20 meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil.
2. Brown the meatballs for about 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. They do not need to cook completely since they will finish baking in the oven.
3. Set the meatballs aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Place the diced potatoes into a bowl and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly into a greased baking dish.
3. Bake the potatoes for 20 minutes before adding the meatballs. This helps them become tender and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven.
2. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the potatoes. Add the browned meatballs on top.
3. Drizzle the heavy cream across the casserole for extra richness.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese evenly over everything.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness.

Nutrition

Calories: 620 · Protein: 35g · Fat: 36g · Carbohydrates: 38g · Saturated Fat: 16g · Fiber: 4g · Sugar: 5g · Sodium: 920mg