This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is classic comfort food that brings together two favorites in one cozy, hearty casserole. Creamy mashed potatoes form the base, topped with juicy meatballs simmered in tomato sauce and finished with a generous layer of melted cheese. Everything bakes together until warm, bubbly, and golden, creating a filling family-style dinner that feels familiar, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines meatballs and mashed potatoes in one comforting dish
- Creamy, savory, and cheesy in every bite
- Easy oven-baked casserole with simple ingredients
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Works with homemade or store-bought meatballs
- Great for make-ahead meals and leftovers
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ lbs cooked meatballs (beef, pork, or mixed)
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and allow the potatoes to steam dry for a few minutes.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Mash the hot potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Meatballs
If using homemade meatballs, cook them fully in a skillet or oven. If using frozen meatballs, heat them according to package directions. Toss the cooked meatballs with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning until well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the sauced meatballs evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Mashed potatoes should be thick and creamy, not runny, so the casserole holds its shape.
- Covering the dish during the first part of baking keeps everything moist, while uncovering at the end allows the cheese to brown beautifully.
Variations
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the meatballs for extra flavor
- Use garlic mashed potatoes for a deeper savory taste
- Swap marinara sauce for a creamy mushroom or beef gravy
- Add a layer of spinach between the potatoes and meatballs
- Use cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend instead of mozzarella
Tips
- Season the mashed potatoes well to avoid a bland base
- Use evenly sized meatballs so they heat through evenly
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded
- Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner servings
- Double the recipe easily for gatherings or meal prep
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables
- Pair with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
- Add extra warmed sauce on the side
- Serve with roasted broccoli or green beans
- Enjoy as a complete one-dish meal
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approx. 520 calories – 28g protein – 26g fat – 42g carbs
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes give the best flavor and texture.
What meatballs work best?
Beef or beef-and-pork meatballs are ideal, but turkey meatballs also work well.
Conclusion
Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is a comforting, satisfying casserole that brings together creamy potatoes, savory meatballs, and melted cheese in one easy dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want classic comfort food that’s simple to make and guaranteed to please.