Introduction:
Savor the deliciousness of Meatball and Potatoes Casserole – a delightful and easy-to-make meal that is rich in flavors and perfect for satisfying your taste buds. This comforting casserole brings together succulent meatballs and tender potatoes, all baked in a flavorful sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether served as a comforting dinner or a hearty family meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and wonderful taste.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the casserole:
4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Olive oil for drizzling
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil.
In a mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients – ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the greased casserole dish.
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes over the meatballs, covering them evenly.
Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the casserole dish, distributing them evenly among the potatoes and meatballs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce and beef or vegetable broth until well combined.
Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the casserole, ensuring it covers the meatballs and vegetables.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the casserole for added flavor and freshness.
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole.
Drizzle a little olive oil over the cheese for a golden and crispy topping.
Bake the uncovered casserole for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Once baked, remove the Meatball and Potatoes Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Prepare:
To prepare this easy and flavorful Meatball and Potatoes Casserole, start by mixing the ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to form the meatballs. Layer the meatballs and thinly sliced potatoes in the casserole dish, and add diced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Pour a mixture of tomato sauce and broth over the casserole and bake until tender. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and olive oil for a crispy topping.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this Meatball and Potatoes Casserole is approximately 20 minutes, while baking takes around 60 minutes, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Servings:
This Meatball and Potatoes Casserole recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for sharing and enjoying with family and friends.
Optional Variation:
For a burst of color and nutrition, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the casserole.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Meatball and Potatoes Casserole is an easy and flavorful delight that brings together the goodness of meatballs, potatoes, and a delicious tomato-based sauce. This hearty and comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, providing a balanced and satisfying meal for all. So, embrace the simplicity and wonderful taste of Meatball and Potatoes Casserole, creating moments of joy and deliciousness around the dinner table.