Comfort Food Delight Hearty Meatball and Potato Casserole

Comfort Food Delight: Hearty Meatball and Potato Casserole

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this hearty Meatball and Potato Casserole. Layered with tender meatballs, creamy potatoes, and a medley of seasonings, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this casserole combines rich flavors and comforting textures that will please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Olive oil (for drizzling)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
  3. Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Top with half of the sliced onions and then half of the marinara sauce. Arrange the browned meatballs over the sauce, followed by the remaining potatoes and onions. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
  5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole. Dust with dried oregano, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Serve: Once done, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread.

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