Cozy Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake Recipe

Introduction

This cozy meatball and mashed potato casserole is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Combining tender meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory brown gravy topped with melted cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs, fully cooked
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (freshly made or leftovers)
• 1½ cups brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Step 3: Arrange the cooked meatballs evenly over the mashed potatoes.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the brown gravy over the meatballs and potatoes, making sure everything is covered.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add sautéed onions or mushrooms before layering the meatballs.
• Use your favorite type of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Try substituting brown gravy with mushroom or onion gravy for a different twist.
• Leftover casserole can be refreshed with a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring midway to maintain texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, just make sure your meatballs are fully cooked before assembling the dish to ensure even heating and safety.

What can I do if I don’t have leftover mashed potatoes?

You can make fresh mashed potatoes quickly by boiling peeled potatoes until tender, then mashing with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cozy Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 146 reviews

This Cozy Meatball and Mashed Potato casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying meal. Combining tender, fully cooked meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, rich brown gravy, and melted cheese, it’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings classic flavors together in one delicious bake.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs, fully cooked

Mashed Potatoes

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (freshly made or leftovers)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Gravy and Toppings

• 1½ cups brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper if your mashed potatoes need a little extra flavor.
3. Add Meatballs: Arrange the fully cooked meatballs evenly over the layer of mashed potatoes.
4. Pour Gravy: Drizzle the brown gravy over the meatballs and mashed potatoes, making sure to cover the surface to keep everything moist and flavorful during baking.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the gravy-covered meatballs and potatoes.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch if desired. Serve hot for a cozy and comforting meal experience.

Notes

• You can use either homemade or store-bought meatballs depending on convenience and preference.
• Leftover mashed potatoes work great for this recipe – just ensure they are well-seasoned.
• For a gluten-free option, verify that your gravy and meatballs are gluten-free.
• Feel free to customize the cheese type; mozzarella provides a milder flavor, while cheddar adds a sharper taste.
• This dish can be prepared in advance and baked when ready; just cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Keywords: meatballs, mashed potatoes, baked casserole, comfort food, brown gravy, cheesy meatballs, easy dinner