Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese

introduction for your Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese recipe :

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food trio with this Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese dish! Imagine tender, flavorful meatballs nestled alongside golden potatoes, all topped with melted, gooey cheese.

This hearty dish combines savory flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish that’s perfect for family dinners or any cozy night in.

Easy to prepare and full of warmth, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to bring smiles to the table.

Ready to dig into a meal that’s both comforting and delicious?

- Ingredients :

3 peeled parboiled Russet potatoes

1 diced white onion

1 pinch dried paprika

1 pinch dried parsley

2 cups shredded mozzarella

1½ pounds ground beef

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Bechamel Sauce:

5 tablespoons butter

4 cups milk

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon nutmeg

- Instructions :

First, make the bechamel sauce.

Melt the butter in a skillet, then stir in the flour.

Whisk and cook for about 6 minutes or until golden.

Heat the milk in a pan until it’s close to a boil but not quite.

Add a cup of milk at a time to the flour mixture, whisking until smooth between each addition.

Bring the mixture to a boil, turn down the heat a bit and cook for 10 minutes, stirring all the time.

Season with salt and black pepper and add nutmeg.

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Mix the beef, onion, parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Shape it into meatballs.

Line a round casserole dish with potato slices and also up the sides.

Arrange the meatballs on top.

Put some potato slices between each one.

Pour the bechamel sauce on top.

Sprinkle over the cheese and bake for 15 minutes or until golden.

Here are some great tips for making your Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese extra delicious :

Choose the Right Meat for Tender Meatballs: Use a mix of ground beef and pork, or a blend with some fat content, to make the meatballs tender and flavorful. Add breadcrumbs and an egg to help bind them.

Season the Meatballs Well: Mix in garlic, herbs like parsley or oregano, and a touch of Parmesan for extra flavor. Salt and pepper are essential to bring out the savory taste.

Par-Cook Potatoes First: Partially cook your potatoes (either by boiling or microwaving) before adding them to the dish. This helps them bake evenly and ensures they come out tender.

Cut Potatoes into Even Pieces: Dice the potatoes into similar sizes to ensure they cook at the same rate. Smaller pieces cook faster, so adjust based on your time and preference.

Use Shredded Cheese That Melts Well: Mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend will melt beautifully and create a creamy, gooey top. Sprinkle cheese on in the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a golden, bubbly finish.

Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Color: Bell peppers, onions, or even carrots can be added for a bit of color and added nutrients. Sauté them lightly before mixing them in with the meatballs and potatoes.

Bake in a Casserole Dish for Even Cooking: A deep baking dish works best for this recipe, allowing the meatballs and potatoes to cook evenly and soak up all the flavors.

Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly before serving helps the cheese and juices settle, making it easier to serve and more flavorful.

These tips will help you create a delicious, comforting dish with perfectly tender meatballs, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese. Enjoy!