The ultimate comfort food mashup with cheesy, saucy goodness!

If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, nostalgic, and ridiculously satisfying, look no further than this Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake. It’s like your favorite spaghetti night met Sunday mashed potatoes and decided to make dinner unforgettable.

Picture this: a fluffy mashed potato base topped with juicy homemade meatballs, all smothered in rich marinara and gooey cheese. It’s warm, cozy, and everything you want in a one-dish wonder.

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Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 1½ lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Bake:

• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

• Place chopped potatoes in a pot of cold salted water.
• Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
• Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Prep and Bake the Meatballs

• In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Mix just until combined and roll into small meatballs.
• Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

3. Assemble the Bake

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the bottom.
• Nestle the cooked meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
• Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs, spreading evenly.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

4. Bake & Serve

• Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
• Garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

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Make It Yours!

• Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms under the mashed potatoes for extra veg.
• Use spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick of heat.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: ~510 kcal per serving
Servings: 6

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This bake is pure comfort in every spoonful—perfect for cozy nights, picky eaters, or when you just need a little cheesy magic. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies and you’ve got yourself a weeknight hero!