This Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole is a cozy hug in a baking dish, packed with creamy mashed potatoes, juicy meatballs, and a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as you layer these delicious ingredients, creating a dish that’s not just food but an experience to remember. For more inspiration, check out this meatballs and gravy recipe recipe.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re gathered around the table with family or friends, laughter echoing as you dig into this delightful casserole. It’s perfect for game nights, potlucks, or even just a comforting weeknight dinner. Each bite promises warmth and satisfaction, making it an instant favorite among all ages.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company.
- The flavor profile bursts with savory goodness that elevates your dinner experience.
- Visually appealing layers make it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
- Versatile enough to adapt based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground beef or turkey for juicy meatballs that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
- Mashed Potatoes: Use freshly made mashed potatoes for creaminess; instant works too if you’re short on time.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs and complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses flavor into both the meatballs and mashed potatoes; don’t skimp on this aromatic ingredient!
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
- Egg: One beaten egg acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during baking.
For the Sauce:
- Ketchup: A classic choice that adds sweetness and tang; feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Chicken Broth: This enriches the flavor of the casserole; low-sodium options are great for controlling salt levels.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks—because nobody likes an uncooperative casserole.
Step 2: Prepare Your Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey with chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but don’t overdo it; we aren’t making sausage here!
Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (roughly two inches in diameter) and place them in your greased baking dish. You should aim for about twelve to fifteen meatballs because who doesn’t want extras?
Step 4: Create Your Flavorful Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together ketchup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour it evenly over the meatballs in the baking dish so they soak up all that saucy goodness while they bake.
Step 5: Layer on Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Spread your prepared mashed potatoes over the top of the meatballs generously. You want every inch covered because we’re not here for half-hearted efforts; this is comfort food at its finest!
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Transfer to plates and serve warm for a family meal that’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Enjoy each creamy bite filled with hearty goodness!
You Must Know
- This Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole combines comfort food staples into one delightful dish.
- It’s an easy way to impress guests or indulge yourself.
- Customize it based on your preferences, and enjoy the beautiful layers of flavors that will make any meal memorable.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the meatballs in a skillet until browned. While they cook, boil potatoes until tender. Mash them with your favorite seasonings before combining everything in a casserole dish for baking. This sequence ensures juicy meatballs and creamy potatoes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground turkey for beef or add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also try different cheeses on top, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to elevate your casserole further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that the top stays crispy while avoiding sogginess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best mash, use starchy potatoes like russets; they yield a fluffy texture perfect for this casserole.
- Avoid over-mixing the mashed potatoes to keep them creamy and not gummy.
- For added flavor, consider mixing sour cream or cream cheese into your mash before layering.
This dish always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone eagerly lined up for seconds—and sometimes thirds! A friend once joked that I should start charging admission for my Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole!
FAQs:
What is Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole?
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole is a hearty dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with flavorful meatballs, baked together for a comforting meal. The mashed potatoes are often enriched with cheese, sour cream, and various seasonings, while the meatballs can be made from chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey. Creamy garlic herb chicken This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or as a satisfying weeknight dinner.
How can I make Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole healthier?
To make Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole healthier, consider using lean meat options like ground turkey or chicken. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with a lower-fat version. Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach into the mashed potatoes boosts nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Using vegetable broth instead of heavy cream will also lighten up the dish. For more inspiration, check out this parmesan crusted chicken recipe.
Can I prepare Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole in advance. Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge. If you prefer freezing it, cover it tightly and store it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking for best results.
What sides pair well with Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole?
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole pairs wonderfully with light salads or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. Consider serving a fresh garden salad dressed with vinaigrette or roasted green beans seasoned with garlic. Garlic butter shrimp lasagna These sides provide texture and freshness while complementing the hearty nature of the casserole.
Conclusion for Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole:
In summary, Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together creamy mashed potatoes and savory meatballs for an unforgettable meal. With simple ingredient swaps, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste while keeping it healthy. Cajun sausage pasta recipe Whether prepared ahead of time or served fresh from the oven, this casserole is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy this delightful dish for family dinners or special occasions!
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes and savory meatballs into one delightful dish. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe ensures every bite is packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or instant)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them in the greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine ketchup and chicken broth; pour over the meatballs.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatballs.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add sautéed vegetables like spinach for added nutrition. For creamier mashed potatoes, mix in sour cream or cream cheese before layering.
