This Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole combines the creamy texture of sliced potatoes with the savory goodness of homemade meatballs, all layered and baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish offers layers of flavor in every bite. Simple to prepare and packed with hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a staple comfort meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Potato Layers:
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated cheese (for extra creaminess)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with a bit of butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley.
- Mix until everything is well combined, then form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Sear the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until they’re browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper and add ½ cup of grated cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Arrange half of the potato slices in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish, seasoning them with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Pour a third of the cheese sauce over the potato layer, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Place the meatballs on top of the first potato layer.
- Cover with the remaining potato slices, add another third of the sauce, and sprinkle with more shredded cheese.
- Use the final portion of sauce and top generously with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, savory casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread!