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This meatball casserole brings together tender, juicy homemade Italian meatballs nestled atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, all baked under a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners when you want something warm and satisfying with flavors everyone loves.
I first made this casserole on a family gathering and it quickly became a requested classic. It’s so rewarding to pull it out of the oven and watch everyone dig in with smiles.
Ingredients
- One recipe Italian meatballs: homemade for juicy flavor and great texture. Use quality ground meat and fresh herbs for best results
- One recipe mashed potatoes: creamy and buttery potatoes form the perfect base. Choose starchy potatoes like russets for smooth mash
- Two cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and adds gooey cheesy richness
- Two tablespoons fresh parsley chopped: fresh herb to brighten the dish and add a pop of color
Instructions
- Prepare mashed potatoes and meatballs:
- Prepare mashed potatoes according to your favorite recipe until smooth and creamy. Prepare Italian meatballs with your go to recipe including the marinara sauce, cooking them fully through.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even baking of the casserole and melting of cheese.
- Prepare casserole dish:
- Grease a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish creating a smooth layer. Arrange the cooked meatballs evenly over the mashed potatoes to distribute flavor consistently.
- Bake:
- Place casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until heated through. Remove briefly and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return casserole to oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for freshness and serve warm straight from the dish.
One memory I treasure is bringing this to holiday gatherings where everyone immediately dug in and asked for seconds. It’s that kind of dish that brings people around the table.
Storage tips
Leftover casserole stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to ten months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge then bake until warmed through and cheese is bubbly.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have homemade marinara sauce on hand, a good quality jarred sauce works fine or try a creamy Alfredo for a twist. You can swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for slightly different cheese flavors. Mashed potatoes can be replaced with a cauliflower mash for a lighter option.
Serving suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls pair perfectly to soak up any extra sauce. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon are great beverage choices.
This meatball casserole is comforting and easy to makeahead while always pleasing a crowd. Warm, cheesy, and satisfying it shines on any family table.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Mozzarella is preferred for its melting properties and mild flavor, but you can also combine it with cheddar or provolone for extra richness.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers and cover the dish well with foil. Refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
- → What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can swap marinara for Alfredo or bechamel sauce to give the dish a different creamy flavor profile.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze for up to 10 months.
- → What oven temperature and baking time are recommended?
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake layered meatballs and potatoes for 20 minutes, add cheese, then bake 10 minutes more until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- → Can I use homemade mashed potatoes and meatballs?
Absolutely, homemade versions add personal flavor and texture, making the dish truly special.