Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by making the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat.

Once the meat mixture is ready, form it into small meatballs (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter). You should have around 20-25 meatballs, depending on the size.

In a large skillet, heat a little bit of oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them to ensure they’re evenly cooked on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, as they’ll finish cooking in the casserole. Set the browned meatballs aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Next, prepare the potatoes. Peel and slice them into thin, uniform rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the more evenly they will cook in the casserole. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer the casserole. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Start with a layer of seasoned potato slices at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them for maximum coverage. Then, add a layer of meatballs, distributing them evenly over the potatoes. Repeat this process until you run out of potatoes and meatballs, finishing with a final layer of potatoes on top.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (or milk) with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Pour this creamy cheese mixture evenly over the top layer of potatoes, making sure it seeps into the layers below.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly. The potatoes should be tender and the meatballs fully cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Serve the casserole hot as a complete meal, or pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.

Tips and Variations

• Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, you can layer in vegetables like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach between the layers of potatoes and meatballs.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time. Prepare it up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle a bit on top before serving.
• Cheese Lovers: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or a sharp blue cheese can be used to customize the flavor of your casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

The Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of hearty potatoes and flavorful meatballs makes for a filling, satisfying meal that’s perfect for colder weather or family gatherings. The creamy, cheesy sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and delicious casserole. It’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation!