There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole that brings family and friends together. Loaded mashed potato and meatball casserole is like a hug in a dish, combining creamy potatoes with savory meatballs, all baked to golden perfection. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful meal, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation.
As I recall my childhood, nothing brought our family to the dinner table faster than the promise of a cheesy, hearty casserole. This dish is perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or even lazy Sundays when you want to indulge in something truly scrumptious. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this casserole a go-to for busy weeknights without compromising flavor.
- Its rich and creamy texture perfectly contrasts the tender meatballs.
- The stunning visual appeal will have everyone reaching for seconds at any gathering.
- Versatile enough to adapt with seasonal veggies or different meats, it suits every palate.
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 moist meatballs that won’t weigh you down.
- Mashed Potatoes: Use homemade mashed potatoes for extra creaminess or store-bought if you’re short on time.
- Shredded Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar or mozzarella; both add a melty finish that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Onion Powder: A sprinkle of onion powder enhances the flavor of your meatballs without the hassle of chopping onions.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds depth and warmth; use fresh garlic if you prefer an extra punch.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend infuses the meatballs with herby goodness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep things flavorful while controlling saltiness.
For Topping:
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; don’t skip this garnish!
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 a sturdy baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks when it’s baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it! Form small meatballs about one inch in diameter.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown those meatballs until they’re golden on all sides. You don’t need them fully cooked since they’ll finish baking in the oven.
Step 4: Layer Ingredients
Spread your creamy mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place the browned meatballs right on top like tiny savory soldiers ready for battle.
Step 5: Pour on the Broth
Gently pour chicken broth over the layered potatoes and meatballs. This will keep everything moist while adding flavor as it cooks.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over everything—because who doesn’t love extra cheese? Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional ten minutes until bubbly and golden.
Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh parsley before serving for that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every creamy bite of loaded mashed potato and meatball casserole—it’s comfort food at its best!
This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table. Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your meatballs, searing them to golden perfection. While they’re sizzling, boil your potatoes until tender. Then, mash those beauties and mix in your favorite cheese before layering everything in a casserole dish for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional cheese for a dairy-free version or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Spice things up with different herbs or even a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling bold!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that you maintain that creamy texture we all love.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect meatballs, ensure they are well-seasoned and not overcooked; they’ll be juicy and flavorful.
- Always let mashed potatoes rest before mixing to enhance their creaminess.
- Don’t skip the cheese layer—it’s what makes this casserole truly loaded with goodness!
One time, I made this Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole for a family gathering. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star when my cousin asked for seconds (and thirds!). It’s that kind of dish that brings everyone together!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole?
To make Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole, you will need ground beef or turkey for the meatballs, potatoes, cheese, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and seasonings. For the mashed potatoes, include butter and milk or a non-dairy alternative. Avoid any pork products and ensure that all gelling agents are plant-based if needed. This combination creates a delicious layered dish perfect for family dinners.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole in advance. Assemble the casserole without baking it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and cook as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests while ensuring maximum flavor.
How can I store leftovers of Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole?
To store leftovers of Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze individual portions for longer storage. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy this comforting dish even after its initial serving!
Can I customize the flavors in this casserole?
Absolutely! The beauty of Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole lies in its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the meatballs or mix different cheeses into the mashed potatoes. Herbs such as thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavors further. Experimenting with spices allows you to create a unique twist on this hearty dish.
Conclusion for Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole:
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy mashed potatoes layered with flavorful meatballs. By using ground beef or turkey, along with fresh ingredients like cheese and green onions, you create a comforting meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences while remaining simple enough for weeknight dinners. Enjoy this delicious recipe as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole
Experience the warmth of home with this Loaded Mashed Potato and Meatball Casserole. Creamy mashed potatoes are layered with savory meatballs, topped with melty cheese, and baked to perfection. This comforting dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, bringing everyone together for a delicious meal.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 4 cups homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into small meatballs (about one inch in diameter).
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden but not fully cooked.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Layer browned meatballs on top.
- Pour chicken broth over the layers to keep them moist.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the meatball mixture. Substitute different cheeses or seasonings based on your preference for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
