Loaded Mashed Potato Meatball Casserole (Printable Version)
Creamy potatoes and savory meatballs baked with cheese and bacon for the ultimate comfort food experience.
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Mashed Potatoes
01 -
4 cups mashed potatoes, fresh or leftover
02 -
¼ cup butter
03 -
½ cup milk or cream
04 -
Salt and pepper to taste
05 -
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
→ For the Meatballs
06 -
1 lb ground beef or turkey
07 -
1 egg
08 -
¼ cup breadcrumbs
09 -
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
10 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
12 -
Salt and pepper to taste
13 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Toppings
14 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
15 -
4-6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
16 -
2 tablespoons chives or green onions, chopped
17 -
Sour cream for serving (optional)
# Steps To Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine ground meat with egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Form mixture into small meatballs and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
02 -
In a pot over medium heat, warm the mashed potatoes with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
03 -
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly in a greased baking dish. Arrange the baked meatballs on top of the potato layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
04 -
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly around the edges.
05 -
Remove from oven and garnish with chopped chives or green onions. Serve warm with optional sour cream on the side.
# Notes and Tips:
01 -
Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe, making it ideal for post-holiday meals
02 -
For a creamier potato layer, add an extra 2 tablespoons of butter