Loaded Mashed Potato Meatball Casserole (Printable Version)

Tender meatballs, creamy potatoes, cheddar, and bacon combine in a golden, family-style casserole.

# What You'll Need:

→ Mashed Potato Base

01 - 1.1 kg potatoes, peeled and cubed
02 - 120 ml whole milk, plus more to taste
03 - 60 g unsalted butter
04 - 120 g sour cream
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Casserole Assembly

07 - 20 to 24 fully cooked meatballs
08 - 150 g shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
10 - 2 green onions, finely sliced
11 - 0.5 tsp garlic powder
12 - 0.5 tsp onion powder
13 - Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Steps To Follow:

01 - Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
02 - Combine drained potatoes with butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning and milk for desired consistency.
03 - Preheat oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a large baking dish. Spread mashed potato mixture evenly on the base of the dish.
04 - Distribute cooked meatballs uniformly over the mashed potatoes. Scatter shredded cheddar cheese atop, followed by crumbled bacon and sliced green onions.
05 - Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and the casserole is golden and bubbly.
06 - Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

# Notes and Tips:

01 - Leftover or frozen mashed potatoes may be used to expedite preparation.
02 - Cheddar cheese may be replaced with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
03 - Adding sautéed onions or mushrooms beneath the meatballs deepens the savoriness.