Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Meatballs and Potato Toppings is a savory and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of juicy meatballs with the creamy, crispy goodness of potatoes. The meatballs are packed with a flavorful filling, making each bite a delightful surprise. The crispy potato topping adds the perfect texture contrast and makes this dish a perfect comfort meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Stuffed Meatballs and Potato Toppings Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
  • 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Boil the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water for about 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Stuff the Meatballs: Take a small amount of the meatball mixture and flatten it out in your palm. Place a spoonful of mozzarella cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat until all the meatballs are made.
  4. Cook the Meatballs: In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.
  5. Prepare the Potato Topping: Mash the boiled potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meatballs in the baking dish.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use mashed chickpeas for the filling to make this dish vegetarian.
  • Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture or sprinkle on top before baking for an extra layer of heat.
  • Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella and cheddar for other cheeses such as Gouda, provolone, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this dish by allowing it to cool completely, then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb as a substitute for beef in the meatballs. Each option will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out of the meatballs?

Make sure the meatball mixture is tightly sealed around the cheese. If necessary, chill the meatballs in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold together.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs and cook them later.

How do I make the mashed potatoes creamier?

For a creamier texture, use whole milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk. You can also add a bit more butter and cream cheese for extra richness.

What other toppings can I use besides cheese?

You can use sautéed onions, crispy beef, or even a dollop of sour cream as additional toppings for extra flavor and texture.

Can I bake the meatballs without frying them first?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through. However, browning them first adds a nice flavor and texture to the outside.

Can I use instant potatoes for the topping?

While you can use instant mashed potatoes, homemade mashed potatoes will have a better texture and flavor. Instant potatoes may not provide the same creamy consistency.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

To ensure the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef meatballs.

Can I add vegetables to the meatball mixture?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To spice up the dish, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to both the meatball mixture and the mashed potatoes for a kick.

Conclusion

Stuffed Meatballs with Potato Toppings are a delightful combination of juicy, cheesy meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a special gathering. With its savory flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this meal is guaranteed to satisfy!

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Stuffed Meatballs and Potato Toppings Recipe

Stuffed Meatballs and Potato Toppings Recipe


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  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Stuffed Meatballs with Potato Toppings is a hearty and comforting dish that combines juicy, savory meatballs stuffed with cheese, and topped with crispy, golden potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner, this meal brings together the flavors of tender beef and melty cheese, paired with deliciously crispy potatoes. Serve it with your favorite sauce for a full, satisfying meal


Ingredients

  • For the Meatballs:

    • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef

    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

    • 1 egg

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 tsp dried oregano

    • 1/2 tsp salt

    • 1/4 tsp black pepper

    • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)

  • For the Potato Toppings:

    • 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

    • 2 tbsp olive oil

    • 1/2 tsp paprika

    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

    • Salt and pepper to taste

    • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

  • For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatballs:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

    • Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it into a patty. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and fold the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Repeat until all meatballs are formed.

  • Cook the Meatballs:

    • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.

    • Brown the meatballs on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer them to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).

  • Prepare the Potato Toppings:

    • While the meatballs are baking, slice the potatoes into thin rounds.

    • Toss the potato slices in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

    • Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

  • Assemble the Dish:

    • Once the meatballs and potatoes are cooked, arrange the meatballs on a serving dish. Top each meatball with a few crispy potato slices.

    • Optional: Heat marinara sauce and spoon over the meatballs for added flavor.

  • Garnish and Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute the mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or gouda for variety.

  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle over the potatoes.

  • To make this a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

  • For quicker preparation, you can use pre-made meatballs and skip the browning step, just bake them directly.

  • If you want to add extra texture, top the potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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