🧆 Gratinated Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Looking for a satisfying, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug? These cheesy oven-baked meatballs served over rich mashed potatoes deliver flavor, comfort, and elegance in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or even a cozy weekend gathering.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 400g (14 oz) ground beef (preferably sirloin or lean cut)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or cilantro (to taste)
- Oil for frying
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and cooked
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 100g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or cooking cream
- Salt to taste
For the Assembly:
- 1 can (400g) of tomato sauce (or homemade)
- Additional grated Parmesan for topping
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and form a smooth mixture.
- Roll the mixture into small, round meatballs.
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry the meatballs over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Mash the cooked potatoes while they are still hot.
- Add butter, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and salt.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of mashed potatoes on the bottom.
- Arrange the fried meatballs evenly on top of the potatoes.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese to taste.
4. Gratinate and Serve
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve hot with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
🌟 Pro Tip
To add even more flavor, try using a homemade tomato sauce simmered with garlic, onion, and herbs like oregano and basil. It’ll elevate your dish to restaurant quality!
🍽 Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Combines two classics: meatballs + mashed potatoes
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
- Great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
✅ Final Thoughts
This Gratinated Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction with every forkful. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a hearty home-cooked meal, this dish checks all the boxes.
Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a household favorite.
