This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food: creamy mashed potatoes layered with savory meatballs, smothered in rich brown gravy, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or whipping up a fresh batch, this dish is easy to assemble and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs (cooked)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
- 1 ½ cups brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix of both!)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder (for extra flavor in the gravy)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Prepare the Layers
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth them into an even layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper if needed.
- Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes, spacing them evenly. You can use a single layer or stack them slightly depending on how many you have.
- Add the Gravy
- Pour the brown gravy over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated and some of the gravy seeps into the mashed potatoes. If desired, sprinkle garlic powder or onion powder into the gravy for an added depth of flavor.
- Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Use mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy finish or cheddar for a sharper, richer flavor—or combine both for the best of both worlds!
- Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Tips for Success
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought: If you’re short on time, store-bought meatballs and gravy work perfectly fine. But if you want to elevate the dish, try making your own meatballs and gravy from scratch.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Customize It: Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or diced bell peppers to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Meatball & Mashed Potato Bake combines all the elements of comfort food into one irresistible dish. The creamy mashed potatoes provide a soft base, the juicy meatballs add savory goodness, and the cheesy, gravy-soaked topping ties everything together. It’s quick to assemble, uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, and is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Indulge in this creamy, cheesy masterpiece—it’s pure comfort on a plate!
